Elk River at Guardian
West Virginia — Water Level & Flood Stage
Located in Webster County, West Virginia on the Elk River. Live water level data from USGS, updated every 15 minutes.
Current Water Level
Gage Height
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Streamflow
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Last Reading
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This is an NWS forecast point (LID: GUAW2). Live data may be limited. View on NWS AHPS →
Flood Stages
Major Flood
18 ft
Moderate Flood
14 ft
Minor Flood
11 ft
Action Stage
9 ft
Flood stages defined by the National Weather Service. Gage height data from USGS Water Resources.
What Floods at Each Level
18 ft
Low side of bridge downstream of gage begins to flood. Numerous points along Route 15 upstream and downstream are flooded. Backwater from creek feeding the Holly River may start to flood Bear Run Road Route 5 over 1.
14 ft
Old house near bridge begins to flood. Low spots along Route 15 upstream and downstream from gage begin to flood.
11 ft
Bankfull. Gravel access road running parallel to Route 15 on the other side of the river begins to flood.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Jul 15, 1979 | 14.5 ft | 6,400 cfs |
| Jul 15, 1979 | 14.5 ft | 6,400 cfs |
| Jun 23, 2016 | 13.35 ft | -9,999 cfs |
| Jun 23, 2016 | 13.35 ft | -9,999 cfs |
| May 28, 2004 | 11.53 ft | — |
About This Gauge
NWS LID
GUAW2
River
Elk River
County
Webster, WV
Coordinates
38.6353°N, 80.4661°W
Get Flood Alerts for Elk 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 Elk River at Guardian?
The Elk River at Guardian 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 Elk River at Guardian?
The NWS-defined flood stage for Elk River at Guardian is 11 feet. Action stage begins at 9 feet. Moderate flooding starts at 14 feet, and major flooding at 18 feet.
How do I get alerts when Elk River rises?
Download StormCast free on Google Play, go to River Gauges, and add Elk River at Guardian 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 Elk River at Guardian gauge located?
The gauge is located in Webster County, West Virginia at coordinates 38.6353°N, 80.4661°W. Data is provided by the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Weather Service.