NORTH CAROLINA FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: December 26, 2025
North Carolina's rivers and streams are currently experiencing a general trend of decreased streamflow across the state, with many locations reporting flow rates significantly below normal for this season. For river enthusiasts and water resource managers, this spells a period of concern for ecological health, water availability, and recreational activities. A notable example is the Dan River at Pine Hall, flowing at 250 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is 79.8% below what is typically expected, affecting both the surrounding ecosystem and recreational use. Similarly, the Tar River at NC 97 at Rocky Mount shows a dramatic decrease in streamflow at 173 cfs, down 89.39% from the norm, suggesting potential issues for downstream communities and wildlife.
While most rivers are experiencing lower flows, Swift Creek at Hilliardston stands out with a current streamflow of 858 cfs, which is 109.38% of the normal flow, indicating potential localized flooding concerns. Meanwhile, the water level in the Roanoke River at Roanoke Rapids has remained relatively stable, though it still registers 74.97% below normal with a streamflow of 2580 cfs. On the whitewater scene, low streamflows may limit access to popular trails like the Nantahala River, which is also showing reduced flows at 130 cfs, 67.01% below normal. Overall, the state's waterways are in a state of reduced flow, with implications for water use, ecosystems, and recreational activities, so enthusiasts and residents should remain informed of changing conditions that could affect river health and accessibility.
North Carolina has a humid subtropical climate with distinct seasons that impact water flow conditions. The state is home to several major surface flows, including the Catawba River, Yadkin River, and Neuse River. These rivers are fed by numerous tributaries and are critical sources of drinking water and recreational activities. Major reservoirs such as Lake Norman and Falls Lake play important roles in managing water supply and mitigating floods. The state's hydrology is influenced by frequent rainfall, which can lead to flash floods and landslides. Snowpack in the Appalachian Mountains affects river flow in the spring and early summer. In recent years, North Carolina has experienced extreme weather events, including hurricanes, that pose significant challenges to managing water resources.
Explore Rivers
- Ararat River
- Black River
- Broad River
- Cape Fear River
- Cashie River
- Catawba River
- Cheoah River
- Davidson River
- Deep River
- First Broad River
- Fisher River
- Flat River
- French Broad River
- Hyco River
- Johns River
- Linville River
- Little River
- Little Tennessee River
- Little Yadkin River
- Lower Little River
- Lumber River
- Mayo River
- Mills River
- Mitchell River
- Nantahala River
- Neuse River
- Oconaluftee River
- Pasquotank River
- Pigeon River
- Reddies River
- Roanoke River
- Roaring River
- Rocky River
- Second Broad River
- Smith River
- South Yadkin River
- Swannanoa River
- Trent River
- Tuckasegee River
- Valley River
- Waccamaw River
- Watauga River
- Yadkin River