Upper Roanoke
Watershed Hydrology
The Upper Roanoke Watershed (HUC 03010101) covers an area of approximately 1,595 square miles in southwestern Virginia. This watershed is home to several major tributaries, including Little River, Catawba Creek, and Tinker Creek. The area is characterized by a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The watershed has a diverse range of land uses, including agriculture, urban areas, and forested land. Surface water quality in the watershed is generally good, with some exceptions in urban areas. The primary reservoir in the watershed is the Roanoke River Reservoir, which serves as a source of drinking water for the city of Roanoke. In terms of hydrology, the area experiences occasional flooding during periods of heavy rain. The snowpack in the Upper Roanoke Watershed is typically low due to the area's relatively mild winters. However, snowmelt and spring precipitation can contribute significantly to stream flow. Climate data shows that temperatures in the area have been steadily increasing over the past few decades, contributing to more frequent and intense precipitation events. This trend is expected to continue in the coming years.