VIRGINIA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: January 2, 2026

Virginia's river conditions reflect a significant deviation from typical streamflow levels, with the majority of rivers across the state experiencing lower than average flows. Notably, waterways such as the Shenandoah, Rappahannock, James, and Appomattox Rivers are reporting streamflow values significantly below normal, often exceeding a 75% reduction compared to median flows. This trend suggests a widespread low water period, which could impact activities such as fishing, boating, and whitewater sports, and may signal a need for water conservation measures in affected watersheds. The James River at Scottsville notably experienced a 14.29 cubic feet per second (cfs) increase in streamflow over the past 24 hours but still remains 76.49% below normal levels, indicating that while there are fluctuations, the overall trend is one of reduced flow. Gage heights in various locations, such as the Maury River near Buena Vista, the James River near Richmond, and Cowpasture River near Clifton Forge, have also decreased, further signifying low water conditions in these rivers.

In contrast, the Russell Fork River at Bartlick shows a streamflow that is 45.34% above the norm, with a current streamflow of 1060 cfs and a gage height of 7.55 feet, which may appeal to whitewater enthusiasts but also raises concerns about potential flooding. The Roanoke (Staunton) River at Randolph has seen a dramatic 52.15 cfs rise in the last day, yet it is still flowing below average by 78.74%. Outdoor and water-related activities along these rivers may be affected, and residents in cities such as Richmond, Fredericksburg, and Lynchburg should remain updated on water levels. Those utilizing the rivers for recreation or livelihood should exercise caution and stay informed about the latest conditions, as the state continues to monitor the situation for any signs of streamflow returning to normal or the possibility of flood events in anomalously high-flow areas.