HAWAII FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 21, 2025

Hawaii's water enthusiasts should note that recent streamflow data indicates significant fluctuations in river conditions that may impact river recreation and local ecosystems. On the Waimea River near Waimea, HI, a notable decrease in streamflow has been recorded, with current measurements at 216 cubic feet per second (cfs), down 48.45 cfs in the last 24 hours, which is 40.61% below what is considered normal for this time of year. Similarly, the South Fork of the Wailua River near Lihue, HI, although presenting an increase of 17.6 cfs in the past day, still flows at 147 cfs, 19.39% below the norm. These flow rates are crucial for those interested in river activities such as kayaking or fishing, as well as for local wildlife that depends on steady water levels.

The Waimea River, with its current gage height at 7.27 feet, and the Wailua River, at 3.48 feet, are both experiencing lower than average flow conditions, indicative of flow droughts that can lead to potential ecological consequences. While the Wailua River's uptick in streamflow could be a sign of pending normalization, the significant drop in the Waimea River's flow, a major river that runs through Kauai and is popular among paddling enthusiasts, suggests a need for caution regarding water resource management and potential impacts on adjacent communities. Weather patterns, water usage, and ecological preservation efforts must be closely monitored to prevent adverse outcomes from these unusual flow patterns, ensuring the sustainability of Hawaii's cherished waterways.