SOUTH CAROLINA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: March 14, 2026

South Carolina's river systems are currently experiencing a range of streamflow conditions, with many locations reporting lower than normal flows. Notably, the Pee Dee River, a major watershed spanning much of the state, has seen a significant decrease in streamflow. The Pee Dee River at Hwy 701 near Bucksport, for instance, reports a current streamflow of 10,300 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is 72.68% below what is considered normal for this time of year, accompanied by a 9.79-foot gage height. Several tributaries of the Pee Dee, such as Black Creek and Lynches River, mirror this trend, with both showing more than 50% reduced streamflow. Water enthusiasts, including recreational paddlers and fishermen, should be aware of these reduced levels which may affect accessibility and navigability of certain waterways.

In contrast, the Lake Moultrie Tailrace Canal at Moncks Corner exhibits an abnormally high streamflow at 716 cfs, a staggering 520.72% above the norm, indicating potential flooding conditions with a 4.08-foot gage height. This anomaly could impact nearby communities and popular whitewater trails, necessitating caution. On the other end, the Back River at Dupont Intake near Kittredge has seen a dramatic 24-hour increase of 252.36% in streamflow, reaching 1,420 cfs with a significant gage height of 14.87 feet. Such sudden changes warrant attention for possible flooding or swift water conditions. While seasonal trends generally lead to lower flows in some rivers during this period, the documented abnormalities in streamflow and gage heights across South Carolina's rivers are critical for river users to monitor for safety and to anticipate the impact on river-related activities.