Many have asked: why are the numbers representing Toad Suck Lock and Dam so much higher than the rest?
ANSWER: According to the National Weather Service in Little Rock, the flood gauges at Toad Suck and Ozark are based on sea level, not on previous flood stages like the flood gauges at nearby areas such as Dardanelle or Little Rock.
A flood gauge, streamgage or gauging station is a location used by hydrologists or environmental scientists to monitor and test bodies of water.
Flood stage is the level at which a body of water's surface has risen to areas where it could cause a threat to life and/or property. This is how Dardanelle, Morrilton, Little Rock and Pine Bluff are being measured.
Sea level is the average level of the sea where it meets the land. The levels recorded for Toad Suck is reading as 276.6 feet above sea level.
For other answers to your flood-related questions: FAQ: Answering your questions about historic Arkansas River flood