CAHABA RIVER

RIVER LEVELS
December 25, 2024


TOTAL RIVER DISCHARGE

Total streamflow across the Cahaba River was last observed at 1,208 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 2,397 acre-ft of water today; about 12% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 10,009 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2014-04-08 when daily discharge volume was observed at 130,420 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Cahaba River Near Marion Junction Al reporting a streamflow rate of 648 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Cahaba River Near Hoover with a gauge stage of 2.62 ft. This river is monitored from 9 different streamgauging stations along the Cahaba River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 679 ft, the Cahaba River At Trussville.

The Cahaba River flows through central Alabama and is approximately 194 miles in length. It is known for its unique aquatic biodiversity, including several endangered species. The river has a rich history and was used for transportation during the early 1800s. The Cahaba River is also important for agriculture, providing water for crops and livestock. Specifically, the river flows through impoundments including the Martin Dam, which provides hydroelectric power to the region. The river is used for recreational activities such as swimming, boating, and fishing. The Cahaba River is a valuable resource for the region and is protected by various conservation efforts to preserve its ecological significance.

Last Updated 2024-12-25
Discharge Volume 2,397 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 1,208.25 cfs
-25.43 cfs (-2.06%)
Percent of Normal 12.07%
Maximum 130,420.0 cfs
2014-04-08
Seasonal Avg 10,009 cfs

YEAR OVER YEAR DISCHARGE (CFS)

Streamflow Conditions
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Cahaba River At Trussville
USGS 02423130
1 cfs 1.67 ft -19.05
Cahaba River Near Mountain Brook Al
USGS 02423380
39 cfs 0.73 ft -3.46
Cahaba River Near Hoover
USGS 02423496
18 cfs 2.62 ft -7.33
Cahaba River Near Cahaba Heights Al
USGS 02423425
19 cfs 1.55 ft 232.76
Cahaba River Near Helena Al
USGS 02423555
71 cfs 1.44 ft -4.83
Cahaba River Near Acton Al
USGS 02423500
32 cfs 2.13 ft -6.94
Cahaba River Near West Blocton Al
USGS 02423647
124 cfs 2.1 ft -6.77
Cahaba River At Centreville Al
USGS 02424000
256 cfs 0.6 ft -0.78
Cahaba River Near Marion Junction Al
USGS 02425000
648 cfs 2.42 ft -2.85
History of the River

The Cahaba River is the longest substantially free-flowing river in Alabama and is among the most scenic and biologically diverse rivers in the United States. It is a major tributary of the Alabama River and part of the larger Mobile River basin. With headwaters near Birmingham, the Cahaba flows southwest, then at Heiberger turns southeast and joins the Alabama River at the ghost town and former Alabama capital of Cahaba in Dallas County. Entirely within central Alabama, the Cahaba River is 194 miles (312 km) long and drains an area of 1,870 square miles (4,800 km2).

       

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Weather Forecast

Regional Streamflow Levels