Summary
Total streamflow across the
Middle Oconee River
was last observed at
395
cfs, and is expected to yield approximately
783
acre-ft of water today; about 8%
of normal.
River levels are low and may signify a drought.
Average streamflow for this time of year is
4,673 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 505 cfs.
This is also the highest stage along the Middle Oconee River, with a gauge stage of
4.54 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 | 2026-01-10 |
| Discharge Volume | 783 ACRE-FT |
| Streamflow |
395.0 cfs
+61.0 cfs (+18.26%) |
| Percent of Normal | 8.45% |
| 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 |
505 cfs | 4.54 ft | 2.41 | |||||
|
Middle Oconee River Near Athens
USGS 02217500 |
400 cfs | 1.72 ft | 33.93 |
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.