MISSISSIPPI FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: January 23, 2026
Recent streamflow data indicates that the state of Mississippi is experiencing varied river conditions, with several areas showing significantly reduced streamflows. Enthusiasts and residents near major rivers such as the Tombigbee, Pearl, and Big Black Rivers should be aware of lower than normal water levels, which could affect recreational activities and local ecosystems. For instance, the Mississippi River at Vicksburg is currently flowing at 321,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is 58.52% below its usual levels, potentially impacting shipping and boating activities. The Big Black River at West, with a noteworthy increase in streamflow in the last 24 hours to 1,310 cfs, still remains 29.82% below normal. The Luxapallila Creek near Columbus has a flow of 929 cfs, which is significantly below the norm by 37.03%, indicating a current flow drought in the area.
Seasonal trends are evident, with streams such as the Yockanookany River near Ofahoma and the Pearl River at Burnside showing large 24-hour changes by 144.86 cfs (74.88% below normal) and -12.3 cfs (123.44% of normal), respectively. The Harland Creek near Howard is an exception, flowing at a high 3340 cfs which is 267.9% above the norm, risking possible floods in adjacent areas. Whitewater enthusiasts should note altered conditions, especially on popular trails like the Okatibbee Creek at Arundel, where streamflow is reduced by 76.85%. With such variations across the state, all river users are advised to stay informed on the latest water levels and flow changes for safety and to anticipate the impact on recreational and environmental conditions.
Mississippi is a state with a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Major surface flows in the state include the Mississippi River, which forms the western border of the state, and its major tributaries, such as the Yazoo River and the Big Black River. There are also several large reservoirs and dams in Mississippi, including the Ross Barnett Reservoir and the Sardis Lake. The state's hydrology is influenced by its topography, which is characterized by low-lying coastal plains in the south and higher elevation regions in the north. Snowpack is generally not a significant factor in Mississippi's hydrology, but heavy rain events and tropical storms can cause flooding in low-lying areas.
Winter Storm Warnings
January 23 2026
Residents of North Mississippi are urged to prepare for a severe ice storm, with significant icing expected to hit the region. The National Weather Service in Memphis has issued an Ice Storm Warning effective from the evening of January 23 to the evening of January 25. The forecast predicts snow and sleet accumulations of 1 to 2 inches and ice accumulations up to an inch. The impending storm poses risks of extended power outages and considerable tree damage. Travel conditions are predicted to be treacherous, if not impossible, particularly in impacted areas such as Ripley and Grenada County. Authorities advise staying informed about the latest weather updates and preparing for emergency situations as Mississippi braces for this potentially historic winter storm.
Explore Rivers
- Biloxi River
- Buffalo River
- Buttahatchee River
- Chickasawhay River
- Chunky River
- Coldwater River
- Escatawpa River
- Hatchie River
- Homochitto River
- Leaf River
- Little Tallahatchie River
- Mississippi River
- Noxubee River
- Pascagoula River
- Pearl River
- Skuna River
- Strong River
- Tallahatchie River
- Tangipahoa River
- Tombigbee River
- Wolf River
- Yalobusha River
- Yockanookany River
- Yocona River