Yadkin River

Total streamflow across the Yadkin River was last observed at 2,909 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 5,769 acre-ft of water today; about 28% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 10,246 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2020-02-07 when daily discharge volume was observed at 124,652 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Yadkin River At Yadkin College reporting a streamflow rate of 1,170 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Yadkin River At Enon with a gauge stage of 2.53 ft. This river is monitored from 5 different streamgauging stations along the Yadkin River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 1,216 ft, the Yadkin River At Patterson.

It is approximately 215 miles long and has a drainage basin of 7,221 square miles. The river has a rich history, having been utilized by Native Americans for thousands of years and later becoming a vital source of power for textile mills and other industries. Today, the river is managed by several hydroelectric dams and reservoirs, including the High Rock Lake and Badin Lake, which provide recreational opportunities for fishing, boating, and swimming. Additionally, the river is used for agricultural purposes, primarily for irrigation of crops. Despite occasional pollution from nearby industries, the Yadkin River remains an important natural resource for the state of North Carolina.