Summary
Total streamflow across the
Little Patuxent River
was last observed at
41
cfs, and is expected to yield approximately
81
acre-ft of water today; about 61%
of normal.
River levels are low and may signify a drought.
Average streamflow for this time of year is
67 cfs,
with recent peaks last observed
on
2024-01-10 when daily discharge volume was observed at
8,570 cfs.
Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the
Little Patuxent River At Savage
reporting a streamflow rate of 27.9 cfs.
This is also the highest stage along the Little Patuxent River, with a gauge stage of
2.93 ft at this location.
This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Little Patuxent River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 267 ft, the
Little Patuxent River At Guilford.
River Details
| Last Updated | 2026-01-02 |
| Discharge Volume | 81 ACRE-FT |
| Streamflow |
40.6 cfs
-4.9 cfs (-10.77%) |
| Percent of Normal | 60.73% |
| Maximum |
8,570.0 cfs
2024-01-10 |
| Seasonal Avg | cfs |
River Streamflow Levels
| Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Little Patuxent River At Guilford
USGS 01593500 |
13 cfs | 1.83 ft | -4.51 | |||||
|
Little Patuxent River At Savage
USGS 01594000 |
28 cfs | 2.93 ft | -13.35 |
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile
The river was historically used for transportation and milling, and played a role in the Civil War during the Battle of Savage's Station. The river's hydrology is impacted by development and stormwater runoff, but efforts have been made to improve water quality through restoration projects. Additionally, it serves as a source of drinking water for the city of Laurel. There are two main reservoirs along the river, Brighton Dam and Triadelphia Reservoir, which provide drinking water and recreational opportunities such as fishing and boating. The river also supports agricultural land use, particularly in Howard and Montgomery counties.