DELAWARE FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: December 25, 2025
Streamflow conditions in Delaware, particularly at Brandywine Creek in Wilmington, reflect a significant deviation from normal levels, which has implications for river enthusiasts and the surrounding community. The current streamflow at Brandywine Creek, a prominent waterway in the state's largest city, is measured at 170 cubic feet per second (cfs). This value represents a notable decrease, as indicated by a 10.53 cfs reduction in the last 24 hours, and is significantly below what is typically expected, standing at 78.11% less than the normal flow for this time of year. The gage height, an essential factor for water-based activities, is currently at 8.5 feet, which informs both recreational users and those monitoring for flood potential about the current water level.
These conditions are essential for water enthusiasts, including anglers and kayakers, who rely on predictable flows for planning their activities. The Brandywine Creek's low streamflow suggests flow drought conditions that may affect the health of the ecosystem and recreational opportunities, especially on whitewater trails that require specific flow conditions for safe navigation. The considerable reduction in streamflow may also signal a potential for drought-related issues downstream, affecting water supply and aquatic habitats. Meanwhile, the reduced gage height indicates that, despite the current low streamflows, the risk of flooding is not imminent. However, residents and authorities should remain vigilant, as sudden large increases in streamflow could indicate a rapid change in conditions, potentially leading to flooding, which would substantially impact the Wilmington area.
Delaware has a humid subtropical climate with moderate rainfall throughout the year. Major surface flows in Delaware include the Delaware River, the Brandywine Creek, and the Christina River. The Chesapeake Bay also borders the state. Major reservoirs include the Kent County Water Supply and the Betts Pond. The state is susceptible to coastal flooding and inland flooding due to heavy rainfall. Watershed data indicates that most of the state is within the Delaware River Basin, although small portions are within the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean Basins. Snowpack is typically low in Delaware due to the warm winter temperatures. Overall, the hydrology of Delaware is influenced by its coastal location, moderate rainfall, and dominant surface flows.