CLINCH RIVER

River Levels Streamflow Hydrology
November 21, 2024

TOTAL DISCHARGE (CFS)

SUMMARY

Last Updated 2024-11-20
Discharge Volume 2,017 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 1,017.0 cfs
-23.0 cfs (-2.21%)
Percent of Normal 29.62%
Maximum 137,300.0 cfs
2020-02-07
Seasonal Avg 3,433 cfs

Total streamflow across the Clinch River was last observed at 1,017 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 2,017 acre-ft of water today; about 30% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 3,433 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2020-02-07 when daily discharge volume was observed at 137,300 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Clinch River Above Tazewell reporting a streamflow rate of 467 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Clinch River At Speers Ferry with a gauge stage of 3.07 ft. This river is monitored from 4 different streamgauging stations along the Clinch River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 1,510 ft, the Clinch River At Cleveland.

The Clinch River is a 300-mile-long river that flows through Virginia and Tennessee. It has played an important role in the history of the region, being used for transportation and industry. The river is fed by numerous tributaries and its hydrology is influenced by several large dams and reservoirs, including Norris Dam and Melton Hill Dam. These dams provide hydroelectric power and flood control, and also create recreational opportunities such as fishing, boating, and swimming. The Clinch River is home to a variety of fish species, including the endangered snail darter. The river is also used for irrigation and agricultural purposes, particularly in the lower reaches of the river in Tennessee. Despite its importance to the region, the Clinch River has faced challenges in recent years due to pollution and habitat degradation.

YEAR OVER YEAR DISCHARGE (CFS)

Streamflow Conditions
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Clinch River At Cleveland
USGS 03524000
206 cfs 1.83 ft -3.47
Clinch River At Speers Ferry
USGS 03527000
399 cfs 3.07 ft -2.79
Clinch River Near Looneys Gap
USGS 03527220
245 cfs 2.46 ft -9.93
Clinch River Above Tazewell
USGS 03528000
467 cfs 1.23 ft -1.27
History of the River

The Clinch River rises near Tazewell, Virginia, and flows southwest for more than 300 miles (480 km) through the Great Appalachian Valley, gathering various tributaries, including the Powell River, before joining the Tennessee River in Kingston, Tennessee.

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Watershed River Levels

89

Cubic Feet Per Second

1460

Cubic Feet Per Second

177

Cubic Feet Per Second

186

Cubic Feet Per Second