Winter Storm Watch
2026-01-26T13:00:00-05:00

* WHAT...Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total snow and sleet accumulations up to 3 inches and ice accumulations between four tenths and one inch possible. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph. * WHERE...Portions of Piedmont and western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina. * WHEN...From Saturday morning through Monday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Significant ice accumulation on power lines and tree limbs may cause widespread and long-lasting power outages. Ice and sleet covered roadways will become treacherous and impassable. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Highest snow and sleet accumulations are possible north of I-40. Highest ice accumulations are possible across the southern mountains of North Carolina, the mountains of northeast Georgia, and the mountains of South Carolina.

Linville Gorge Wilderness Boundary To Southern End Of Wilderness Paddle Report

Paddle Report

North-Carolina

Last Updated: 2026-01-22

The Whitewater River run in Linville Gorge Wilderness, North Carolina is a popular destination for experienced paddlers seeking thrilling Class IV and V rapids.

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

15-Day Weather Outlook

Summary

The ideal streamflow range for this 10-mile segment is between 300-600 cfs, with higher flows presenting significant danger. The Class IV rapids begin at the Wilderness boundary and continue for about 3 miles until the Class V rapid, "Gorilla". The remaining 7 miles are mostly Class III with a few Class IV rapids.

Specific river obstacles include the "Toilet Bowl" and "Sunshine" rapids, both Class IV, and the aforementioned "Gorilla" rapid, a Class V drop that requires precise navigation. Paddlers should also be aware of the large boulders and narrow channels throughout the run.

Regulations for the area include obtaining a permit from the US Forest Service and adhering to Leave No Trace principles. Due to the difficult nature of the run, paddlers should also have appropriate safety gear and experience. It is recommended that paddlers scout rapids before attempting them and paddle with a group. Multiple sources, including American Whitewater and the US Forest Service, confirm these details.

River Run Details

Last Updated	2026-01-22
River Levels	130 cfs (1.52 ft)
Percent of Normal	56%
Status
Class Level	iv-v
Elevation	ft
Streamflow Discharge	cfs
Gauge Height	ft
Reporting Streamgage	USGS 02138500

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Winter Storm Watch
Until 2026-01-23T13:00:00-05:00 • National Weather Service
* WHAT...Heavy mixed precipitation possible. Total snow and sleet accumulations up to 3 inches and ice accumulations between four tenths and one inch possible. Winds could gust as high as 35 mph. * WHERE...Portions of Piedmont and western North Carolina and Upstate South Carolina. * WHEN...From Saturday morning through Monday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Significant ice accumulation on power lines and tree limbs may cause widespread and long-lasting power outages. Ice and sleet covered roadways will become treacherous and impassable. The hazardous conditions could impact the Monday morning commute. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Highest snow and sleet accumulations are possible north of I-40. Highest ice accumulations are possible across the southern mountains of North Carolina, the mountains of northeast Georgia, and the mountains of South Carolina.