07/30/2026
Heads up, Highlanders!
We're enjoying some beautiful weather today, and we hope you are too! If you're spending time outdoors or relaxing along the New River, be sure to stay aware of changing river conditions.
This afternoon, Appalachian Power Company will be conducting a test that will temporarily increase downstream flows on the New River. River levels are expected to rise by approximately 2.5 feet and can increase quickly.
Please use caution, stay alert, and avoid areas where rising water could create hazardous conditions.
WATER LEVEL NOTICE
Appalachian Power Company (APCo) will conduct a required test of its generating units at the Claytor Hydroelectric Project in southwest Virginia on Thursday, July 30, 2026.
The test will temporarily increase downstream flows on the New River, with impacts varying by distance from the dam. Areas closest to the dam, including Radford, can expect river levels to rise by approximately 2.5 feet Thursday afternoon. Flows are expected to peak during the afternoon before decreasing throughout the evening.
Recreational and commercial users of the river and shoreline areas should be aware of temporarily higher water levels and faster-moving water. People fishing, boating, swimming or otherwise recreating on the New River should use caution and be prepared for rapidly changing river conditions.
Weather or other operational circumstances could affect the timing.
The twice-yearly testing is required by PJM Interconnection, the regional transmission organization that coordinates the movement of wholesale electricity in the mid-Atlantic region.
