As part of a Sea Grant funded project, we are forecasting above-average oxygen levels for the Neuse Estuary this summer (July-August).  The forecast is based on substantial estuary flushing over the winter and early spring, and low streamflow conditions (and nutrient load) in May.  Forecasted oxygen levels are less conducive to fish kills than normal, though meteorological variability make such events difficult to predict.  The following Sea Grant post shows the 2021 forecast as well as a retrospective assessment of least year’s (2020) forecast.

Summer 2021 Hypoxia Forecast: Fish Kills Less Likely Than Usual in the Neuse River Estuary