Learn what each color means!
Score: 80-100
The water looks great! Dive in and have a splashing good time!
Swimming
Fishing
Boating
Splashing
Score: 60-79
The water is okay, but maybe don't stay in too long. Dip your toes first!
Swimming
Just a quick dip!
Fishing
Boating
Wading
Feet only!
Score: 40-59
The water quality is questionable. Best to stay dry today and check back tomorrow!
Swimming
Fishing
Catch & release only
Boating
Avoid water contact
Wading
Score: 0-39
Uh oh! This water isn't safe right now. Let's find a different spot to play!
Swimming
Fishing
Boating
Don't touch water!
Wading
Each factor is measured and rated to calculate your Water Quality Index
Click any factor to see the rating scale
Slimy green or blue-green goop that can make you and your pets sick
Chemicals from farms that wash into the water when it rains
Water that is too hot or too cold can be dangerous
When water gets too high and flows fast with yucky stuff in it
How well you can see underwater - murky water hides dangers
The air dissolved in water that fish and plants need to live
How acidic or basic the water is - wrong balance can hurt your skin
Microscopic creatures that can make your tummy hurt
Special germs that mean the water has gross stuff in it
How fast the water moves - strong currents can sweep you away!
Thunderstorms are super dangerous near water - get out fast!
When dams let out extra water, it creates sudden dangerous waves
Swirly water and big waves that can pull you under
We combine multiple trusted sources for the most accurate predictions
Real-time weather conditions, forecasts, and storm tracking from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
Official water quality standards and contamination alerts from the Environmental Protection Agency
7-day rolling averages and seasonal patterns to predict future conditions
Beach closures, health advisories, and emergency notifications from county and state agencies
Automated scanning of regional news for water-related incidents and warnings
Real-time observations from swimmers, boaters, and local residents
We combine all 13 factors into one easy number from 0 to 100 - the Water Quality Index (WQI). The higher the number, the cleaner and safer the water! Our algorithm weighs each factor based on its impact on human health and ecosystem safety.