ALABAMA FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: January 1, 2026
Alabama's river systems currently show a trend of lower-than-average streamflows, with many locations reporting significantly below normal levels, suggesting a potential for flow droughts in various watersheds throughout the state. Notably, the Alabama River near Montgomery is flowing at a mere 193 cubic feet per second (cfs), a drastic 99.63% below its normal rate, while the gage height is at an elevated 27.11 feet. Similarly, the Cahaba River, significant for both its ecological diversity and recreational activities near Marion Junction and West Blocton, is flowing at 559 cfs and 111 cfs, respectively, both over 91% below their normal streamflows.
In contrast, some waterways have experienced large increases in flow that could indicate flooding potential. The Mulberry Fork at Cordova, which feeds into the popular whitewater course on the Mulberry River, has surged to 1160 cfs, an increase of 578.36 in the last 24 hours. Additionally, the Tombigbee River at Bevill Lock and Dam near Pickensville, crucial for navigation and recreation, has risen by 229.8 cfs to a flow of 2490 cfs. Meanwhile, the Village Creek in Birmingham surged to 229 cfs, an astonishing 321.11% above normal, highlighting an abnormal spike in streamflow. Huntsville Spring Branch at Johnson Road also exhibits a notable increase to 3310 cfs, 258.9% above the norm, potentially impacting the surrounding city areas. These substantial shifts in streamflow underscore the need for river and water enthusiasts to exercise caution and vigilance, as these conditions may affect access and safety on Alabama's rivers and streams.
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