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2025-12-17T18:00:00-07:00

The National Weather Service in Denver has issued a Red Flag Warning for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from 11 AM to 6 PM MST Wednesday. * AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zone 241. * TIMING...From 11 AM to 6 PM MST Wednesday. * WINDS...West 15 to 30 mph, with gusts to 45 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...20 to 25 percent. * IMPACTS...Conditions will be favorable for rapid fire spread. Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a spark and start a wildfire.


MIDDLE OCONEE RIVER

Last Updated: December 16, 2025

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


Summary

Total streamflow across the Middle Oconee River was last observed at 185 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 367 acre-ft of water today; about 99% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 188 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2024-01-11 when daily discharge volume was observed at 15,680 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Middle Oconee River Near Arcade reporting a streamflow rate of 185 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Middle Oconee River, with a gauge stage of 2.79 ft at this location. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Middle Oconee River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 692 ft, the Middle Oconee River Near Arcade.

River Details

Last Updated 2025-12-16
Discharge Volume 367 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 185.0 cfs
-247.0 cfs (-57.18%)
Percent of Normal 98.67%
Maximum 15,680.0 cfs
2024-01-11
Seasonal Avg cfs
       
River Streamflow Levels
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Middle Oconee River Near Arcade
USGS 02217475
185 cfs 2.79 ft -8.87
Middle Oconee River Near Athens
USGS 02217500
184 cfs 1.27 ft -19.65
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile

It is a major tributary of the Oconee River and serves as a vital source of water for the region. The river has a rich history, dating back to the pre-colonial era when it was used for transportation and fishing by Native American tribes. Today, the river is home to several reservoirs and dams, including the Bear Creek Reservoir and the Barnett Shoals Dam, which provide hydroelectric power and drinking water for the surrounding communities. The Middle Oconee River is also a popular destination for recreational activities such as fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The river and its surrounding watershed also play a significant role in agriculture, supporting crops such as cotton, peanuts, and soybeans.