IOWA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Iowa's rivers are currently experiencing a variety of streamflow conditions, creating a mixed bag for river enthusiasts. Notably, the Mississippi River at Clinton presents a significant streamflow of 27,700 cubic feet per second (cfs), yet this is still 40.21% below what's considered normal for the area, potentially affecting activities in and around Clinton. The Des Moines River near Stratford saw a substantial 24-hour increase of 312.47 cfs, but with streamflows at 39.75% below normal, it's indicative of broader fluctuations across the state. On the other hand, the Raccoon River near West Des Moines is flowing at 279.79% above the norm at 1,300 cfs, suggesting a sharp rise that river users, especially whitewater aficionados, should monitor closely for safety. Such disparities in flow underscore the diverse conditions across Iowa's waterways, with certain rivers like the Cedar at Cedar Rapids (70.34 cfs increase) and the Iowa River below Coralville Dam (only 1.02% deviation from normal) also worthy of attention due to their popularity and impact on local communities.

In terms of potential water-related challenges, the Cedar River at Waterloo is running at 2,090 cfs, a drop of 8.85 cfs in the last 24 hours, and is currently at 30.3% below its normal flow. This could signal flow drought conditions that may affect water availability downstream. Furthermore, the South Skunk River at Colfax shows a heightened gage height of 7.76 feet, which, coupled with a 46.34% lower than normal streamflow, might indicate issues for ecosystems reliant on regular water levels. Extreme caution is advised for those near the Upper Iowa River near Dorchester, where streamflow changes and percent normal values suggest variability that could translate to unpredictable conditions on the water. With such dynamic river conditions across the state, it's essential for water enthusiasts, including those frequenting popular whitewater trails, to stay updated on the latest streamflow data and heed any advisories from local authorities, particularly in cases of abnormally large streamflows or sudden rises that could lead to flooding.