NORTH CAROLINA FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: December 27, 2025
North Carolina's streamflow report indicates a general trend of below-normal water levels across the state, with most rivers and creeks experiencing lower than average streamflow, which could be of concern for water enthusiasts and ecologists alike. Notably, the Tar River at NC 97 in Rocky Mount has seen a significant decrease of nearly 93 percent from its normal streamflow, currently at 154 cubic feet per second (cfs), accompanied by a sizable drop in gage height to 3.52 feet over the past 24 hours. Similarly, the Deep River at Moncure is operating at a mere 5.41 percent of its normal flow, a troubling sign for this watershed. On the other hand, Swift Creek at Hilliardston stands out with a streamflow of 858 cfs, which is actually over 109 percent of its normal flow, potentially indicating localized heavy rainfall or upstream releases.
For whitewater aficionados, the generally low flows are likely to impact conditions on popular routes such as the Nantahala and French Broad rivers. The Nantahala River near Rainbow Springs is flowing at a reduced 128 cfs, 68.31 percent below its average, which may affect the intensity of rapids. The French Broad River, with various points of interest for paddlers from Rosman to Hot Springs, is also experiencing decreased flows, with the station at Asheville reporting 892 cfs, down 1.33 percent in the last day and running at 76.78 percent of its norm. City dwellers in Asheville, Lumberton, and Goldsboro might note the lower flows in their proximate rivers, potentially impacting municipal water planning. These below-average streamflows across North Carolina's rivers could lead to flow droughts if the trend continues, urging caution for both recreational users and water resource managers.
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.
Winter Storm Warnings
December 27 2025
Residents across various regions of North Carolina should exercise caution this morning due to widespread dense fog affecting visibility. Areas near lakes and rivers, particularly in the Piedmont and western parts of the state, including Forsyth, northern Davidson, and western Guilford counties, are experiencing visibility drops to a quarter-mile or less. Motorists in the Triad and those west of the I-77 corridor are advised to drive slowly, use low-beam headlights, and allow extra space between vehicles. The fog is expected to lift after 9 AM; however, visibility may change suddenly, creating hazardous driving conditions. Please provide additional time for travel and stay alert for further weather updates.
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