FLORIDA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Florida's river systems are experiencing a variety of streamflow conditions, with some rivers reporting below-normal flows, while others are seeing significant increases that could alert water enthusiasts and authorities to potential flooding risks. Notably, the St. Johns River at Astor is flowing at 4800 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is above its average, with a gage height of 1.46 feet, signaling an increased flow that could affect communities along the river. Contrastingly, the Econlockhatchee River near Oviedo and Chuluota is experiencing lower-than-normal streamflow at 182 and 204 cfs, respectively, which indicates a flow drought in those areas. Whitewater trails along these rivers could be less challenging due to lower flows. On the other hand, the St. Johns River near Jacksonville has seen a tremendous rise in streamflow, currently at 149,000 cfs, a jump likely due to recent weather events, raising the potential for flooding in the Jacksonville area.

Focusing on abnormally large streamflows, the St. Johns River at Buffalo Bluff near Satsuma reported an exceptional increase in streamflow, now at 16,400 cfs, with a gage height of 10.69 feet. This substantial flow is more than 60% higher than normal and could impact the surrounding watershed and communities, including popular paddling spots. Similarly, in the southwestern part of the state, the Fisheating Creek at Lakeport has a current streamflow of 1050 cfs, significantly above the norm, with a gage height of 13.44 feet, hinting at possible flooding conditions. Conversely, rivers such as the Withlacoochee and the Suwannee are reporting streamflows significantly below normal, with the Withlacoochee River near Dade City at just 108 cfs and the Suwannee River at White Springs at a mere 149 cfs, suggesting a considerable decline in water levels. These conditions highlight the wide variability in streamflow across Florida's rivers and could have implications for recreational activities, water resources, and ecosystem health.

       



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.


       

Winter Storm Warnings

December 24 2025

Residents of Madison County, Florida, should exercise caution this morning due to a Dense Fog Advisory in effect until 10:00 AM EST, which poses hazardous driving conditions due to visibility of one-quarter mile or less. Additionally, beachgoers in Coastal Palm Beach, Broward, and Miami Dade Counties must be aware of dangerous rip currents throughout the day, with the risk remaining high until 7:00 PM EST. Please avoid swimming in these areas and exercise extreme caution if near the water, as rip currents can be life-threatening, even for the most experienced swimmers.