Major Flood
4.5 ft
Current Water Level
Gage Height
Loading...
Streamflow
Loading...
Last Reading
Loading...
This is an NWS forecast point (LID: BCTU1). Live data may be limited. View on NWS AHPS →
FLOOD STAGES
Know the flood categories.
Flood stages defined by the National Weather Service. Gage height data from USGS Water Resources.
Moderate Flood
4.4 ft
Minor Flood
4.2 ft
Action Stage
3.5 ft
What Floods at Each Level
893 ft
major flooding will occur all along Big Cottonwood Creek from the outlet of Big Cottonwood Canyon to the Jordan River. At these high flows, areas susceptible to bank erosion pose the highest risk of flood damage, and depending on the length of the flooding, damage will be variable.
861 ft
moderate flooding will occur in Murray Park and downstream areas of Big Cottonwood Creek. Many low lying residential areas along the river will receive flood damage.
798 ft
minor flooding will occur to areas adjacent to Big Cottonwood Creek. The main areas affected will be those most susceptible to bank erosion at higher flows, and those located close to the creek. The flooding will threaten those areas from the outlet of Big Cottonwood Creek to the Jordan River.
Impact statements from the National Weather Service, describing what typically happens at each water level.
7-Day Water Level Chart
Loading chart data...
Historic Crests
| Date | Stage | Flow |
|---|---|---|
| Sep 25, 1982 | 4.8 ft | 1,100 cfs |
| Jun 6, 1912 | 4.15 ft | 848 cfs |
| Jun 5, 1909 | 4.1 ft | 835 cfs |
About This Gauge
NWS LID
BCTU1
River
Big Cottonwood Creek
County
Salt Lake, UT
Coordinates
40.6186°N, 111.7811°W
Get Flood Alerts for Big Cottonwood Creek
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 Big Cottonwood Creek near Salt Lake City?
The Big Cottonwood Creek near Salt Lake City gauge is maintained by USGS 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 Big Cottonwood Creek near Salt Lake City?
The NWS-defined flood stage for Big Cottonwood Creek near Salt Lake City is 4.2 feet. Action stage begins at 3.5 feet. Moderate flooding starts at 4.4 feet, and major flooding at 4.5 feet.
How do I get alerts when Big Cottonwood Creek rises?
Download StormCast free on Google Play, go to River Gauges, and add Big Cottonwood Creek near Salt Lake City to your watchlist. StormCast will send a push notification to your phone whenever the water level crosses into a new NWS flood category.
Where is the Big Cottonwood Creek near Salt Lake City gauge located?
The gauge is located in Salt Lake County, Utah at coordinates 40.6186°N, 111.7811°W. Data is provided by the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Weather Service.