DELAWARE FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: December 4, 2025
Delaware's river enthusiasts should note that the Brandywine Creek, flowing through Wilmington, DE, has experienced a notable decrease in streamflow over the past 24 hours. The current streamflow recorded at 312 cubic feet per second (cfs) has dropped by 35 cfs from the previous day. This streamflow is below the norm for the area by 34.37 percent, suggesting that there may be a period of reduced water supply impacting the creek. Such declines in streamflow can affect recreational activities, local ecology, and water availability in Wilmington. The gage height at the monitoring location is 8.91 feet, an essential metric for those monitoring river depth for boating and other water-related activities.
For those monitoring seasonal trends and potential flooding events, the decreased flow warrants attention as it indicates a flow drought, which could affect the health of the watershed and surrounding ecosystems. However, it is equally important to remain vigilant for rapid increases in streamflow that could lead to flooding, particularly if there is significant rainfall or upstream water release. The Brandywine Creek is a critical waterway in the region, and changes in its streamflow can have implications for the city of Wilmington, the surrounding communities, and the recreational use of the creek, including popular whitewater trails. Continuous monitoring and analysis of such data are vital for predicting and responding to both water shortages and potential flood events.
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.