ARIZONA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

In Arizona, the Colorado River system, significant for its life-sustaining water supply and recreational opportunities, displays varied streamflow conditions, crucial for enthusiasts tracking seasonal trends and potential water-related events. The Colorado River at Lees Ferry, a key location for water allocation and management, is currently flowing at 8,810 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is 29.55% below normal, indicating a period of lower than average flow, important for users to note. Similarly, upstream and downstream points, such as near Grand Canyon and above Diamond Creek near Peach Springs, show decreased flows at 7,650 cfs and 9,430 cfs, 28.32% and 15.3% below normal, respectively, which could affect both ecosystems and river recreation.

Local river systems also demonstrate noteworthy conditions; the Verde River, critical for central Arizona's water supply and a popular recreation site near Scottsdale, flows at a reduced rate of 152 cfs, 48.88% below normal, potentially impacting local water availability and stream activities. In contrast, the East Verde River near Childs remarkably exceeds its average at 133 cfs, an astounding 408.8% of normal, raising attention to the possibility of flooding or enhanced recreational flows. The Salt River, a source of Phoenix's water and a favorite among whitewater enthusiasts, shows varied streamflow along its course, with the point below Stewart Mountain Dam notably at 198 cfs, 71.62% above normal, suggesting conditions favorable for water activities but warranting vigilance for potential stream level increases. These streamflow variations across Arizona's river systems highlight the need for continuous monitoring to assure water resource management, recreational safety, and ecological health.