Last Updated: December 23, 2025
Mississippi's river system is currently displaying a diverse range of streamflow conditions that are of interest to river enthusiasts, anglers, and water managers. A majority of the rivers are experiencing lower than normal streamflows, with several reporting significant departures from their average conditions. Notably, the Tombigbee River, a key waterway with multiple monitoring points, is showing a substantial decrease in streamflow, with its segment near Bigbee registering a flow of 344 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is a striking 82.2% below normal. The current gage height at this location is 3.79 feet. However, at the Aberdeen Lock and Dam, a sharp increase in streamflow was observed, with a 698.35 cfs change in the last 24 hours, although it still remains 73.16% below normal, with a gage height of 40.38 feet.
Certain streams and creeks are experiencing conditions that are noteworthy for their potential impact on local activities and ecosystems. The Luxapallila Creek near Columbus and the Noxubee River at Macon are also reporting low streamflow conditions at 52.49% and 81.88% below normal, respectively. Conversely, the Hanging Moss Creek near Jackson has seen a dramatic rise in streamflow with a current measurement of 356 cfs representing a 1015.99% increase from normal, which may raise concerns for flooding and requires close monitoring. The Mississippi River at Vicksburg, a major waterway, currently flows at 226,000 cfs, which is 56.8% below normal but still maintains a significant gage height of 49.25 feet. This data indicates varied conditions across the state's waterways, with certain areas experiencing flow droughts while others could be at risk for flooding, thus necessitating vigilant monitoring and adaptive management to ensure safety and water resource sustainability.
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.