ILLINOIS FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Streamflow conditions across Illinois show a mix of below-normal flow rates and a few pockets of near-normal streamflow, potentially impacting various water activities and environmental conditions. Many rivers, including the Embarras, Wabash, and Little Wabash, are experiencing significantly low streamflows, with the Embarras River at Lawrenceville reporting a 97.33% reduction from normal levels, indicating potential flow drought conditions. The Wabash River at Mt. Carmel, a vital waterway, is also running low at 79.55% below its typical flow. On the contrary, the Kaskaskia River at Chesterville is near its normal flow, showing less impact on local ecosystems and recreational activities.

Notably, the Illinois River, a major water system critical for both commerce and recreation, shows varied conditions: below-normal at Marseilles, with a flow of 9,610 cubic feet per second (cfs) and a decrease of 41.28% from normal, which could affect larger vessels and freight movement. Conversely, the Illinois River at Valley City shows an increase in flow in the last 24 hours, raising potential concerns for flooding in nearby areas. The Fox River, with locations like Algonquin, Dayton, and Montgomery, exhibits subtle increases in streamflow, with Montgomery showing a slight uptick of 4.14 cfs. Whitewater enthusiasts and other river users in Illinois might find conditions less favorable for navigation and sport, particularly in areas like the Rock River and Kankakee River, which are experiencing below-normal flows and could impact trails near cities like Rockton and Wilmington. Overall, the state's waterways are experiencing an unusual trend of lower streamflows this season, with a few areas of concern for high water levels that warrant attention for flood monitoring and water resource management.