Gauge Description:

For most of modern paddling history the TVA gauge Little Pigeon at Sevierville has been used to speculate on flows on the Middle Prong. 2000 cfs was a good indicator for a reasonable run.

Now there is a better way. There is a gauge called Little Pigeon above Sevierville which measures the flow of only the Middle Prong and the East Fork of the Little Pigeon. This more accurately conveys flows in the upper stretches of the Middle Prong, as the West Prong is not included in the values recorded at this gauge location. This spot is four miles upstream of the West Prong confluence

Using local radar rainfall totals, investigate whether the rain was valley precipitation or whether it fell in the higher altitudes at the top of the headwaters. If it fell high then look for levels of 1100 cfs or more for good flows. If it is still rising it is anyone's bet, based on rainfall totals. If it is falling and is below 1000, a skunking is likely.

National Weather Service/NOAA Rain gauge for Sevier County
Newfound Gap is a good rain gauge for this run, though it is in one watershed west, that of the West Prong Little Pigeon. If there has been an inch or more, this is likely to be running, with more rain required after extended dry periods.