ALABAMA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 25, 2025

Alabama's river systems are currently experiencing varied streamflow conditions, with many areas reporting significantly lower-than-normal flows, posing potential challenges for water enthusiasts and local ecosystems. Key rivers such as the Alabama, Cahaba, Coosa, Tallapoosa, and Tombigbee are reporting streamflow rates well below their seasonal averages, which may impact recreational activities, including fishing and whitewater rafting, particularly in popular spots like the Locust Fork near Sayre, now at a mere 177 cfs, and the Mulberry Fork at Cordova with 868 cfs, both showing a drastic decrease in percent normal streamflow. The current gage height of the Alabama River near Montgomery stands notably high at 27.36 feet with a substantial 24-hour increase in streamflow, suggesting a need for vigilance in surrounding areas such as Montgomery due to the potential for flooding.

In contrast, streams such as Huntsville Spring Branch at Johnson Road have seen an extraordinary increase in streamflow to 3310 cfs, which is over 250% of the normal flow, indicating possible flooding conditions that could affect the nearby city of Huntsville. This sudden rise underscores the importance of monitoring local waterways for rapid changes. Additionally, the Village Creek at 24th St. in Birmingham is experiencing a high percent normal, suggesting localized heavy runoff that might intrigue kayakers looking for urban whitewater opportunities. However, enthusiasts should exercise caution given the erratic nature of such surges. Overall, the current streamflow data indicates a mix of drought-like conditions and potential flooding across Alabama's rivers, requiring both water resource managers and river users to stay informed and prepared for changing river conditions.

       



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.


       

Winter Storm Warnings

December 25 2025

Residents of Alabama, particularly in southeast Alabama, parts of south central and southwest Alabama, and multiple counties including Calhoun, Chambers, Clay, Cleburne, Coosa, Jefferson, Lee, Randolph, Shelby, St. Clair, Talladega, Tallapoosa, Autauga, Barbour, Bibb, Bullock, Chilton, Dallas, Elmore, Greene, Hale, Lowndes, Macon, Marengo, Montgomery, Perry, Pickens, Pike, Russell, and Sumter, are advised to exercise caution due to dense fog advisories. The National Weather Service warns of visibility dropping to a quarter mile or less, which can create hazardous driving conditions. These advisories are in effect until 10:00 AM CST or 11:00 AM CST, depending on the region. Please travel with care, use fog lamps if available, and allow extra time to reach your destinations safely.