ILLINOIS FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 29, 2025

Streamflow conditions across Illinois rivers are showing varied trends, with several waterways reporting significantly reduced flows while others are experiencing marked increases, which could be indicative of potential flooding concerns for river enthusiasts and local communities. For example, the Embarras River at Lawrenceville is flowing at 151 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is a startling 92% below the norm for this time of year, possibly signaling flow drought conditions. Conversely, streams like Butterfield Creek at Flossmoor and Thorn Creek at Thornton are displaying alarmingly high increases in streamflow over the past 24 hours at 3949% and 1664%, respectively, leading to high gage heights of 6.01 and 6.51 feet, which could be precursors to flooding events.

Especially notable are significant streamflow changes in urban areas near Chicago, where rapid streamflow increases have been observed, such as at Midlothian Creek in Oak Forest, with a staggering increase of 9854%, pushing the streamflow to 216 cfs. Nearby, the North Branch Chicago River at Niles has seen a 703% increase, signaling potential urban waterway risks. Major rivers such as the Mississippi are also showing deviations from normal conditions, with the Mississippi River at Thebes running at 92,900 cfs, which is 41% below its usual pace. River and whitewater enthusiasts, particularly around the Kankakee River at Momence and Fox River at Montgomery, should be aware of the higher-than-normal flows, which may affect recreational activities. Additionally, cities like Joliet, Shorewood, and Wilmington along the Kankakee and Du Page Rivers should monitor the situation closely, as these areas are seeing elevated streamflows that could impact water levels and local conditions. Overall, the state's waterways are experiencing a mix of potentially hazardous low flows and swift increases, warranting close attention to local advisories and changing river conditions.