Last Updated: January 11, 2026
Florida's river systems are experiencing a variety of streamflow conditions, reflecting both seasonal trends and specific event-driven fluctuations. Notably, the St. Johns River near Cocoa and Christmas, key arteries for the central Florida watershed, are registering streamflows significantly below normal, hovering around 43-48% of their typical levels, with decreases over the past 24 hours. Such low streamflows could signal flow droughts, affecting both the ecosystem and water-based recreation. Conversely, the Cedar River at San Juan Ave in Jacksonville has seen an extraordinary surge in streamflow, rising over 2000% in the past day, raising concerns about potential flooding in urban areas.
Further attention is warranted at the Dunns Creek and St. Johns River at Buffalo Bluff near Satsuma, which are experiencing streamflows at 61.79% and 48.77% above normal, respectively. This could impact popular whitewater trails and kayaking spots due to the increased currents. Similarly, the Fisheating Creek at Lakeport and the C-41 Canal near Brighton are seeing significantly elevated streamflows at 137.11% and 281.86% of their typical levels, indicative of possible flooding conditions. Water enthusiasts and residents near these locations should stay updated on local advisories. On the other end of the spectrum, the Suwannee River and its tributaries are facing critical low streamflows, particularly near White Springs and Bell, where flows are a mere 6.47% and 33.33% of normal, potentially hinting at ecological stress and impacting recreational use. Across the state, such fluctuations underscore the need for vigilant environmental management and preparedness for water-related activities.
Florida is characterized by a flat landscape with numerous rivers and lakes that are critical to the state's hydrology. The St. Johns River, the longest river in Florida, flows from its headwaters in east-central Florida to the Atlantic Ocean. Other major rivers include the Kissimmee River, the Ocklawaha River, and the Apalachicola River. The state's climate is subtropical, with hot and humid summers and mild winters, and is prone to frequent hurricanes and tropical storms. There are numerous man-made reservoirs in Florida, including Lake Okeechobee, which is the largest freshwater lake in the state and a key water source for agriculture and urban areas. The state does not receive significant snowfall, and its hydrology is primarily influenced by rainfall patterns, groundwater recharge, and coastal tides.
Residents in various parts of Florida should exercise caution due to multiple weather advisories in effect. Dense fog advisories are impacting visibility in Lake County, particularly along U.S. Route 441 and 301, and in coastal areas of northeast Florida, including the Interstate 95 corridor between Jacksonville and Flagler Beach. The Tampa Bay region, including Pinellas and coastal counties, is also experiencing dense fog. Beachgoers are warned of strong longshore currents and moderate risk of rip currents in Volusia, Brevard, Indian River, Saint Lucie, and Martin counties. Dangerous rip currents are expected along beaches in Walton, Bay, Gulf, Franklin, Palm Beach, Broward, Miami Dade, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, Charlotte, and Lee counties. Motorists should drive with low-beam headlights, reduce speed, and increase following distance, while swimmers should exercise extreme caution near the coast.