LITTLE PATUXENT RIVER

Last Updated: April 26, 2026

Total streamflow across the Little Patuxent River was last observed at 121 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 240 acre-ft of water today; about 141% of normal. River levels are high. Average streamflow for this time of year is 86 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 78.5 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Little Patuxent River, with a gauge stage of 3.45 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.

Get the latest River Levels, Streamflow, and Hydrology for in River flows across 2 streamgages of the Little Patuxent River


15-Day Long Term Forecast


River Details

Last Updated 2026-04-26
Discharge Volume 240 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 120.8 cfs
Past 24 Hours: +18.5 cfs (+18.08%)
Percent of Normal 140.57%
Maximum 8,570.0 cfs
2024-01-10
Seasonal Avg cfs
       
River Streamflow Levels
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Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Little Patuxent River At Guilford
USGS 01593500 		42 cfs 2.45 ft 28.18
Little Patuxent River At Savage
USGS 01594000 		79 cfs 3.45 ft 13.28
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
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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.