Can you swim here today?
Upper Falls
North Carolina · Waterfall
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today
Cold waterAs of October 29, 2026, the water temperature at Upper Falls is 52°F (11°C), measured by USGS gauge 02176930, 7 miles away.
Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today: water temperature is 52°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion.
- Water temperature is 52°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion. — USGS gauge 02176930, as of Oct 29, 5:45 AM gauge-local time
- Flow is below the 25th percentile for Oct 29 (median 119 ft³/s over 17 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Oct 29, 5:45 AM gauge-local time
Flow is low for this date — below the 25th percentile for Oct 29 (median 119 ft³/s over 17 years).
No official beach-advisory feed for North Carolina yet — follow posted signs and local guidance.
Live, provisional data from USGS gauge CHATTOOGA RIVER AT BURRELLS FORD, NR PINE MTN, GA (7 mi away), as of Oct 29, 5:45 AM gauge-local time.
Before you get in
- Never swim alone — and keep weaker swimmers within arm's reach.
- Scout depth and entry/exit points before you get in.
- Read the current: avoid fast, rising, or murky water.
- Check the forecast — get out well before storms or lightning.
- Obey posted signs, flags, and lifeguard guidance.
Read next
Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly. Always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories and local guidance before swimming or paddling.