James River (VA) at Buchanan
Botetourt County, Virginia
The past week
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What floods at each level
- 22 ft
Additional buildings upstream of gage, and farmland flooding begins in vicinity of the gage.
- 20 ft
Farmlands and residential basements of buildings upstream (right bank) become flooded.
- 17 ft
Right bank above gage and flats above town on left bank are inundated. Mostly agricultural lands affected.
- 16 ft
Route 43 (Parkway Drive) is closed as water starts to reach the road.
- 6 ft
Stages above 6 feet are considered too high for all but expert boaters.
- 4 ft
Caution is suggested for James River boaters..between 4 and 6 feet.
- 2.4 ft
Stages between 2.4 and 4 feet are considered ideal for boating activities.
- 2 ft
Below this stage the river may be too low for boating activities.
Highest crests on record
| Date | Level | Flow |
|---|---|---|
| Nov 4, 1985 | 38.84 ft | 179,000 cfs |
| Mar 26, 1913 | 31 ft | 105,000 cfs |
| Jun 22, 1972 | 30.49 ft | 111,000 cfs |
More on James River (VA)
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