FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: February 10, 2026
As spring unfolds, the orchestration of the nation's rivers dances to a complex rhythm dictated by weather and watershed conditions. Currently, some streams and rivers are experiencing high streamflows, affecting communities and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Among the hotspots is the Ohio River at Old Shawneetown in Illinois and Kentucky, reporting a significant flow of 259,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), while the St. Johns River at Jacksonville, Florida, shows a substantial 152,000 cfs. These high water levels are attributed to recent weather patterns, including sunny to stormy transitions, with the potential for impacted activities along these waterways.
The White River in Arkansas is another area of concern, with gauges at Batesville, Calico Rock, and Norfork capturing flows ranging from 18,200 to 43,800 cfs. Such elevated levels, combined with a slight chance of thunderstorms, pose challenges for water management and may disrupt fishing and rafting endeavours. Minnesota's rivers are not left out of this aquatic upheaval, with the Mississippi River at St. Paul and other locations like Hastings and Mankato reporting high flows under partly sunny skies, ushering in a cautious tone for nearby urban centers.
With the mosaic of river conditions across the country, watersheds like the Middle Tombigbee-Lubbub and the South Fork Shenandoah are well below their average flows, at 30.52% and 19.85% of normal, respectively. Conversely, the Castle Rock shows an astonishing 694.96% of its average flow, indicating a potential for flooding. The Santa Clara and the Santa Maria in California report flows more than six times their normal, pointing to a wetter season than usual. The diverse conditions span from drought-affected regions to those at risk of flooding, prompting a nuanced approach to water resource management.
Water enthusiasts and researchers should remain vigilant, as weather patterns continue to influence river levels. Outdoor activities such as fishing, rafting, and boating need to be planned with an eye on the latest streamgauges, and cities along these rivers must stay prepared for the possibility of changing conditions. The data paints a vivid picture of our dynamic waterways, serving as a reminder of nature's unpredictable power and the importance of monitoring and respecting our natural resources.