| Recent rain that led to flooding in parts of West Virginia have led officials with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to release over 8,000 cubic feet of water (cfs) from Sutton Dam, in Sutton. This marks the highest outflow of water since March 2015.
According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, high releases from the dam are most noticeable between the dam and below the town of Gassaway. People located along the river are advised to watch water levels.
As of this morning, the outflow stage was 821.5 feet above sea level. The maximum allowed outflow stage is 825 feet.
For people living along the river, it is possible for the river to rise almost four feet higher than recent levels.
According to the Corps, the water control manual for Sutton Dam authorizes the release of 12,600 cubic feet of water, the conditions necessary to reach high outflows are rare.
There must be sufficient inflow into Sutton Lake to not allow the lake level to fall more than six feet in 24 hours and water released must not cause the Elk River to exceed flood stage below Sutton Dam, particularly in Frametown, W.Va.
High discharges are coordinated with the Braxton County Office of Emergency Services. If you would like to sign up for automated messages and phone calls in the event of high water, text your zip code to 888777 or call their office at (304) 765-3520. Message and data rates may apply. | 
