Total streamflow across the Watauga River was last observed at 687 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 1,363 acre-ft of water today; about 42% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 1,652 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2020-02-06 when daily discharge volume was observed at 12,870 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Watauga River At Elizabethton reporting a streamflow rate of 557 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Watauga River, with a gauge stage of 3.32 ft at this location. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Watauga River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 2,613 ft, the Watauga River Near Sugar Grove.

The Watauga River is a tributary of the Tennessee River that runs for approximately 78 miles through North Carolina and Tennessee. The river was historically used by Native American tribes as a source of food and transportation. Today, it is a popular spot for recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and rafting. The river's hydrology is affected by several reservoirs and dams, including the Watauga Dam, which was constructed in the early 1940s for hydroelectric power generation and flood control. The reservoir behind the dam, known as Watauga Lake, is a popular spot for boating and fishing. The river is also used for irrigation in agricultural areas along its banks.