West Fork Cedar River at Finchford
Iowa — Water Level & Flood Stage
Located in Black Hawk County, Iowa on the West Fork Cedar River. Live water level data from USGS gauge 05458900, updated every 15 minutes.
Current Water Level
Gage Height
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Streamflow
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Last Reading
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Flood Stages
Major Flood
20 ft
Moderate Flood
18 ft
Minor Flood
17 ft
Action Stage
12 ft
Flood stages defined by the National Weather Service. Gage height data from USGS Water Resources.
What Floods at Each Level
18.5 ft
Water affects the intersection of Hwy T71 and Hwy C55 at the convenience store. Basement flooding occurs in many residences with some flooding on the main floors. Water is also at the floor level of the convenience store. Water wells may collapse.
17.5 ft
Water affects several roads as well as nearby residences and small businesses.
17 ft
Water affects Hwy T71 north of the river and threatens the town of Finchford.
16 ft
Water affects nearly 20000 acres.
15 ft
Water threatens the road fill area along Hwy T71 just north of the river. Water also threatens the bridge 1000 feet north which spans the overflow area.
14 ft
Water backs up in nearby basements.
13.5 ft
Water affects lowland areas.
12 ft
Some lowland flooding occurs.
10.5 ft
Water affects low-lying areas.
Impact statements from the National Weather Service, describing what typically happens at each water level.
7-Day Water Level Chart
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Historic Crests
| Date | Stage | Flow |
|---|---|---|
| Jun 9, 2008 | 20.82 ft | 25,900 cfs |
| Jun 9, 2008 | 20.82 ft | 25,900 cfs |
| Jul 28, 1990 | 18.45 ft | 23,300 cfs |
| Jul 28, 1990 | 18.45 ft | 23,300 cfs |
| Jun 26, 1951 | 17.28 ft | 31,900 cfs |
About This Gauge
USGS Site
NWS LID
FNHI4
River
West Fork Cedar River
County
Black Hawk, IA
Coordinates
42.6294°N, 92.5435°W
Get Flood Alerts for West Fork Cedar River
StormCast monitors this gauge and sends a push notification to your phone when the water level crosses into a new flood category — even at 3 AM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current water level of West Fork Cedar River at Finchford?
The West Fork Cedar River at Finchford gauge is maintained by USGS (site 05458900) and reports water levels every 15 minutes. Visit this page to see the latest reading updated live, or download StormCast to get push alerts when levels rise.
What is flood stage for West Fork Cedar River at Finchford?
The NWS-defined flood stage for West Fork Cedar River at Finchford is 17 feet. Action stage begins at 12 feet. Moderate flooding starts at 18 feet, and major flooding at 20 feet.
How do I get alerts when West Fork Cedar River rises?
Download StormCast free on Google Play, go to River Gauges, and add West Fork Cedar River at Finchford to your watchlist. StormCast will send a push notification to your phone whenever the water level crosses into a new NWS flood category — even when your screen is off.
Where is the West Fork Cedar River at Finchford gauge located?
The gauge is located in Black Hawk County, Iowa at coordinates 42.6294°N, 92.5435°W. USGS site number: 05458900. Data is provided by the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Weather Service.
On This River
More Resources
Source & Notes
Data provided by: Observations courtesy of U.S. Geological Survey