Ward Creek at Otway (in MLLW)
Stage at this gauge is reported in MLLW.
Flood levels
Official flood levels at this gauge: action stage begins at 3.5 ft; minor flooding begins at 4.0 ft; moderate flooding begins at 5.5 ft; major flooding begins at 7.5 ft.
| Action stage | 3.5 ft |
|---|---|
| Minor flooding | 4.0 ft |
| Moderate flooding | 5.5 ft |
| Major flooding | 7.5 ft |
Highest recorded crests
- 8.0 ft on Sep 14, 2018 (historic crest)
- 4.6 ft on Sep 23, 2023 (historic crest)
- 4.6 ft on Jan 10, 2024 (historic crest)
- 4.5 ft on Aug 23, 2025 (historic crest)
What the water does
National Weather Service impact statements for this gauge, in the Weather Service's own words.
| 3.5 ft | Very low lying areas adjacent to the North River, Ward Creek, and other tributaries will see minor flooding. |
|---|---|
| 4.0 ft | Minor flooding in Otway and Bettie flooding docks and yards adjacent to the North River, Ward Creek and tributaries. Some minor inundation of secondary roadways around Otway. Portions of Crow Hill Road will flood. |
| 5.5 ft | Widespread flooding throughout Otway and Bettie. Numerous residences and businesses will see flooding. Portions of Highway 70 will be inundated with water and may be impassable. Many secondary roads (including Gillikin and Harkers Island Roads) will be inundated and impassable. Coastal Carolina Campground will be inundated. |
| 7.5 ft | Extensive and significant flooding throughout Otway and Bettie as well as other nearby areas of downeast Carteret County, with numerous homes and businesses flooded. Most, if not all, roadways will be impassable due to significant inundation, including portions of Highway 70 and most secondary roads. |
Forecast office: NWS Newport · River Forecast Center: Southeast River Forecast Center.
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Nearby stations and gauges
- North River Bridge NOAA tide station · 2.1 mi
- Harkers Island Bridge NOAA tide station · 4.6 mi
- Newport River (Yacht Club) NOAA tide station · 5.6 mi
- Lenoxville Point NOAA tide station · 5.6 mi
- Channel Marker Lt. 59 NOAA tide station · 6.0 mi
- Beaufort NOAA tide station · 6.2 mi