RVA James

James River conditions for Richmond families

Active Advisory

No current JRA water quality sample available

USGS data hasn't updated in 89 minutes. Conditions shown may not reflect current state — check USGS directly for the latest gage reading.

River conditions

Updated 1h ago

Westham gauge (upriver)

3.69ft

1,250 cfs

USGS 02037500

City Locks (tidal)

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Tidal elevation

USGS 02037705

Safety thresholds reference the Westham gauge. City Locks reads tidal elevation (NAVD 1988) — different datum, not directly comparable.

James River at normal spring flow — all family access points open and safe today.

The Westham gauge reads 3.69 ft this morning, well within the normal operating range for May. Discharge is a moderate 1,250 cfs — typical for late spring after the initial snowmelt. Water levels support full access to all nine family-friendly locations, with rock-hopping surfaces well exposed and swimming conditions safe for supervised school-age children. Air temperature is a cool 60°F, so water will feel chilly (we don't have today's river temperature reading, but May water is typically 55–65°F). Your 6–9-year-olds will want wetsuits or rash guards for comfort on longer water visits. No rainfall advisories are active, and the City Locks station data is unavailable, but the upriver gauge shows no flood pulse approaching. All bridge crossings (Potterfield, Belle Isle pedestrian) are open and accessible.

Water temperature likely 55–65°F — cool but manageable with rash guards or wetsuits for extended immersion.
Air temp 60°F — bring dry change of clothes and extra layers for after-water play.

Best bets today

AI-generated from USGS sensor data · use your own judgment on the water