NWS Sterling, VA - Hydrology page

For specific local information on river forecast points, and additional links, visit our Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service webpage!

Current Observations

• River Observations
  • Text version (updated every 6 hours, more sites)
  • Graphic version (updated hourly, key sites including AFWS data)
  • IFLOWS Data from Virginia
• Temperature/Precipitation Observations
  • Daily roundup (issued 10am daily)
  • Current Conditions (updated hourly)
  • Daily Observed Precipitation Graphic
  • AFWS Data from MD/VA/WV
  • IFLOWS Data from Virginia
  • Monthly Preliminary Precipitation Summary

River Forecasts

• Potomac River at a Glance
• North Branch Potomac River at a Glance
• South Branch Potomac River at a Glance
• Rappahannock River at a Glance
• South Fork Shenandoah River at a Glance
• North Fork Shenandoah River at a Glance

The latest river forecasts for all other rivers/streams are always available at our Advanced Hydrologic Prediction Service webpage.

Precipitation Forecasts

Local Precipitation Forecasts (click to enlarge) Each graphic covers a six-hour period for the next 24 hours.

National Precipitation Forecasts, Days 2 through 5 (click to enlarge) Images from the Weather Prediction Center (WPC)
Day 2 Rainfall	Day 3 Rainfall	Days 1 through 3 Total
Days 4-5 Forecast Rainfall (Weather Prediction Center) 5 Day Total Forecast Rainfall (Weather Prediction Center) Probabilistic Rainfall (Weather Prediction Center)

Safety & Preparedness

• Turn Around, Don't Drown®
• High Water Mark Sign Project
• Flood Safety Awareness Week
• National Flood Insurance Program

Additional Information

• WPC Winter Weather Forecasts
• Day 3-7 National Hazards Graphic
• Flash Flood Guidance - Mid-Atlantic River Forecast Center
• Experimental Short-Term Hydrologic Ensemble Forecasts (MMEFS)
• Drought Information Statement (only issued when needed)
• River Flood History
• Precipitation Frequency Information
• Questions? Email the hydrologist.