RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — As Tropical Storm Debby continues up the East Coast, Friends of the James River says the incoming rainfall could make the river rise by more than 9 feet by Saturday.
Friends of the James River Executive Director Josh Stutz said high water levels on the James are expected this weekend due to Tropical Storm Debby.
“It’s going to be great for boaters and kayakers and folks who are experienced in what they’re doing out there,” Stutz said in reference to the high water level. “It’s not a great weekend for swimming or tubing or any of those activities that require a little less skill and experience.”
Stutz said large rain events tend to spike water levels and is urging residents of the Richmond area to be aware of the water level before going out on the James.
“There’s new hazards that you can’t see immediately under the water that are visible right now at four feet that aren’t going to be visible at ten feet, that are going to still impact you when you get in the water,” Stutz said.