TENNESSEE FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Tennessee's river and stream enthusiasts should be aware that the state is currently experiencing lower than normal streamflow conditions across multiple waterways, with many rivers reporting flows significantly below their seasonal averages. The New River at New River and the Clear Fork near Robbins are flowing at just under half of their typical rates for this time of year, with -51.56% and -53.57% of normal streamflow respectively. Such reduced flows may impact recreational activities and could hint at underlying hydrological concerns. The Cumberland River at Nashville, a major waterway, is also below its average (-15.47% percent normal), though it maintains a substantial flow of 19,800 cubic feet per second (cfs). Despite these broader trends, there have been significant 24-hour increases in streamflow in some rivers, such as the Harpeth River near Kingston Springs, which surged by 66.67%, potentially indicating localized flooding risks.

For whitewater enthusiasts, notable rivers like the Ocoee and the Pigeon are showing decreased flows, with the Ocoee River at Copperhill reporting a -68.63% change over the last 24 hours, which could affect conditions on popular whitewater trails. Elevated gage heights are seen on the Nolichucky River below Nolichucky Dam, with a current gage height of 42.2 feet, although this is a likely anomaly due to sensor error given the streamflow percent normal of -45.24%. The Doe River at Elizabethton is one of the few rivers flowing at near-normal levels (-0.56% percent normal). Cities along these rivers, including regions around Nashville, Murfreesboro, Franklin, and Knoxville, should stay informed about the potential for streamflow changes, as should those in proximity to the Clinch, French Broad, and Duck rivers, which are essential to the state's water resources and recreational activities.