ALABAMA FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: December 17, 2025
Alabama's rivers and streams are currently experiencing varied streamflow conditions, with several running below their normal levels, suggesting a trend towards low water conditions in many parts of the state. Anglers, paddlers, and other water enthusiasts should be aware that popular waterways such as the Choctawhatchee, Pea, and Conecuh Rivers are reporting decreased streamflows with the Choctawhatchee River near Bellwood flowing at just 42% of its normal rate at a gage height of 4.76 feet. Similarly, the Tallapoosa River near Heflin stands at a mere 30% of its typical flow. These low levels could affect recreational activities and indicate potential drought conditions in their respective watersheds. Conversely, certain areas are witnessing elevated streamflows, such as Village Creek at 24th Street in Birmingham, where the flow has spiked to over three times the normal level, signaling potential for flooding and impacting urban water channels.
Highlighting specific concerns, the Conecuh River at River Falls shows a considerable increase in streamflow with a change of 306.03 cubic feet per second (cfs) over the last 24 hours, reaching a near-normal flow but with an elevated gage height of 8.17 feet, which could suggest recent heavy rainfall or release from upstream dams. Significant fluctuations are also seen in the Black Warrior River at Northport, with streamflow at a mere 2.52% of normal, pointing towards extreme low water conditions that could affect the river's ecosystem and local water supply. Moreover, the Huntsville Spring Branch at Johnson Road has experienced a substantial surge, with streamflow at over 250% of normal, which presents a risk of flooding and could impact whitewater trails and other recreational pursuits. Residents and visitors should stay informed of the current conditions, especially when planning water-related activities or residing near these waterways, as the state's river systems continue to show dynamic and changing flow patterns.
Alabama is home to several major surface flows, including the Tennessee River, the Black Warrior River, and the Alabama River. There are numerous reservoirs and dams throughout the state, including the Lewis Smith Lake Dam and the Martin Dam. The climate in Alabama is generally warm and humid, with frequent rainfall throughout the year. The state's hydrology is influenced by several factors, including the Appalachian Mountains to the north and the Gulf of Mexico to the south. Major tributaries to Alabama's rivers include the Cahaba River, the Coosa River, and the Tombigbee River. Snowpack is generally not a significant factor in Alabama's hydrology, although there have been occasional snowstorms in the northern part of the state.
Explore Rivers
- Alabama River
- Black Warrior River
- Blackwater River
- Buttahatchee River
- Cahaba River
- Chattooga River
- Choctawhatchee River
- Conecuh River
- Coosa River
- Fish River
- Flint River
- Fowl River
- Little Cahaba River
- Little River
- Little Tallapoosa River
- Magnolia River
- North River
- Noxubee River
- Paint Rock River
- Perdido River
- Sepulga River
- Sipsey River
- Styx River
- Sucarnoochee River
- Tallapoosa River
- Tombigbee River