NORTH CAROLINA FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Streamflow conditions across North Carolina's river systems are notably below average, signaling a period of flow drought that is affecting most parts of the state. Key waterways like the Dan River at Pine Hall, the Neuse River near Clayton, and the Tar River at NC 97 at Rocky Mount are experiencing streamflows at least 70% below their normal levels, with gage heights low enough to potentially impact recreational activities and ecosystems. For example, the current streamflow at the Neuse River near Clayton is 302 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is a significant 81.85% below normal with a gage height of 1.43 feet. Whitewater enthusiasts and river users should be cautious and keep abreast of local conditions as these low flows can expose previously submerged hazards and may limit river access.
However, there are exceptions to this trend, such as Swift Creek at Hilliardston, which has a current streamflow 9.38% above the norm at 858 cfs, albeit with a gage height decrease over the last 24 hours. This anomaly could suggest localized weather patterns influencing streamflows or watershed conditions unique to that area. With most rivers running low, the state needs to be vigilant for any rapid increases in streamflow following significant rainfall, as these could lead to potential flooding, particularly in urban areas and regions with impervious surfaces like Asheville or Raleigh. River users, be they anglers, paddlers, or hikers near river trails such as the Nantahala or French Broad, should stay informed via updates from the US Geological Survey and local water management authorities, especially during this period of unusual hydrologic variability.
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