CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Every day for the past ten days, some part of the Catawba River has received rain, up to three inches at a time. Duke Energy expects the river and lakes to stay near their current levels for the next few days as the company continues to move water downstream to make room for the additional rain in the forecast. Most lakes are well above their target levels.
Despite excessive rainfall, most lakeside residents have been spared from any high water impacts. The public can check real-time lake levels and special updates 24 hours a day at http://www.duke-energy.com/lakes/levels.asp and on Duke Energy's lake information phone line at 800-829-5253.
High water requires increased safety awareness
Dams and spillways can be beautiful to look at, but the water immediately above and immediately beneath them is treacherous. Duke Energy reminds the public to heed warning signs posted near dangerous areas and avoid boating and swimming in these areas. Unusual swirling currents can pull boats and people toward the dam and under the water.
People should watch for increased currents, wear life jackets and stay alert to changing weather conditions.
In addition, high water can sweep heavy debris into the lakes and boaters should stay alert for partially submerged objects.
About Duke Energy Carolinas
Duke Energy Carolinas owns nuclear, coal-fired, natural gas and hydroelectric generation. That diverse fuel mix provides approximately 20,000 megawatts of owned electric capacity to approximately 2.4 million customers in a 24,000-square-mile service area of North Carolina and South Carolina.
Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Duke Energy is a Fortune 250 company traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DUK. More information about the company is available at: www.duke-energy.com.