Stand down … no boat move needed this morning. Thanks for being ready.

You know darn well there were at least a few of you who looked at this scene and thought, "Hmmm. Maybe if I waded across up there, I could ...." NO. (April 18, 2011)

Originally posted on April 23, 2011, “To row (or not to row) when the Potomac floods,” below contains helpful info and a link to the NOAA flood stage prediction page:

On Monday, the river is expected to crest at 7.6 feet.  Generally, we move lower boats to higher ground when the river is expected to crest at 12 feet or higher.  Again, since this is not the case for Monday, no action is required this weekend, but for your continued caution.

Now, below is the guidance you thrill seekers have dreaded or the excuse you late sleepers have anxiously awaited.  Either way, take heed.  It is a combination of practical recommendations provided by our Float Captain Chuck Selden and the rules of the club.

The Resource
Following is a link to the National Weather Service, Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service.  Chuck urges you to open it and set it as a bookmark.  It gives the actual and predicted levels at Little Falls.  Check it at bedtime, and again before coming down to row.

• Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service

The Rule
Still wondering whether or not you should row?  Well, this should make it a little easier for you … the rule according to the Safety Section of the PBC Member Handbook states the following:

The docks are closed when the water level is at 7 feet or above at the Little Falls gauge.

At these levels (although we will note that Chuck believes private boats should be able to launch with caution at crests of up to 8 feet), even the most skilled crews will have difficulty getting back through Key Bridge safely and to the dock.  Not only will the river be fast and swirly in unexpected areas, but it can take a crew almost twice as long as it usually takes to row the same distance upstream.

Even at levels above 6 feet, if there is any question in your mind that you may not be able to easily combat swirly current and standing waves, just don’t go out.  It’s not worth it.

Chuck on Rowing When the River is High
When levels are above 5.5 feet, Chuck’s advice is to immediately row downstream through the Key Bridge.  He and his crew carefully survey the scene around the bridge first, then they usually end up taking the first or second arch from the Washington, DC side.  If there are crews coming up towards Key Bridge, cross the river when traffic allows and use the usual traffic pattern arch (second from the Virginia side).  Remember to stay about 70 to 100 yards upstream of Key Bridge until you can safely align with the middle of the arch before turning to go through.

Heading downstream, there will be swirly water in the river until after Memorial Bridge, where it will start to get better.  Often, well before you reach the 14th Street Bridge, it will be flat, calm and rowable without swirls.  Chuck says his very experienced crew typically heads to the big radar at the airport (the 5 mile turn-around) or to Hains Point.  This way they can get a 9-10 mile row in with about 6-7 miles of decent water.

[But, again, if in doubt, don't go out.  We promise that no one will be talking about what a stud you were for going out in high water when they're dragging for your body.]