2026-02-16T18:00:00-07:00
...PROLONGED PERIOD OF CRITICAL FIRE WEATHER CONDITIONS EARLY TO MID NEXT WEEK... .Recent dry conditions combining with above normal temperatures and much stronger winds early next week will bring potentially critical fire weather conditions Monday and Tuesday, possibly lasting into Wednesday. There is potential for extreme fire weather conditions on Tuesday as widespread strong and gusty winds to around 60 mph are expected. The National Weather Service in Denver has issued a Fire Weather Watch for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from Monday morning through Monday afternoon. A Fire Weather Watch has also been issued from Tuesday morning through Tuesday evening. * AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zones 216, 240, 241, 244, 245, 246, 247 and 249. * TIMING...For the first Fire Weather Watch, from late Monday morning through Monday afternoon. For the second Fire Weather Watch, from Tuesday morning through Tuesday evening. * WINDS...Southwest 15 to 25 mph with gusts to 35 mph on Monday. On Tuesday, west winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts around 60 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 11 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. There is potential for extreme fire weather conditions on Tuesday.
Summary
Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the reporting a streamflow rate of cfs. This is also the highest stage along the North Oconee River, with a gauge stage of ft at this location. This river is monitored from 1 different streamgauging stations along the North Oconee River, the highest being situated at an altitude of ft, the .
15-Day Weather Outlook
River Streamflow Levels
| Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
North Oconee River At College St
USGS 02217770 |
114 cfs | 4.28 ft | -1.72 |
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile
The river has played an essential role in the history of Athens, GA, as it was the main source of water for the city until the 1940s. The river flows through several counties in Georgia, including Clarke, Oconee, and Jackson. The hydrology of the river is primarily controlled by rainfall, with the river being prone to flash floods during heavy rainfall. There are several reservoirs and dams on the North Oconee River, including the Bear Creek Reservoir and the Lake Oconee Dam. These reservoirs serve as sources of drinking water for local communities. The river is also popular for recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. There are also several agricultural uses of the river, including irrigation and livestock watering.