The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and Storm Water Services operate a network of 73 rain and 51 stream gauges throughout Charlotte-Mecklenburg. The hydrologic data helps track rainfall trends and flood heights.

Rain and Stream Gauges

Many of the rain gauges are on the rooftops of public schools or government buildings around Charlotte-Mecklenburg. When it rains, data is transmitted from the rain gauges to base stations located at USGS and the Charlotte-Mecklenburg Government Center.                                                                                                                                                               
                         
How rain gauges work  

If it rains very hard or creeks rise rapidly, specially selected rain and stream gauges that make up the FINS network automatically notify emergency responders of the likelihood of flooding.

For more information, please contact Samantha Willis at 704-336-5780 or Josh McSwain at 704-336-4918.