KANSAS FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: January 1, 2026
Streamflow conditions across Kansas have shown a diverse range of fluctuations, indicating a mix of dry conditions and potential flooding concerns for river enthusiasts. A general trend of lower-than-normal streamflow is evident, with many rivers like the Republican, Smoky Hill, and Marais Des Cygnes reporting flows significantly below average, with the Republican River at Clay Center and the Big Blue River at Marysville recording precipitous drops of -89.44% and -90.52%, respectively, from their normal levels. The Republican River at Scandia saw a notable 24-hour decrease of -20.93%, suggesting a rapid change that could impact downstream conditions. Conversely, the Neosho River near Parsons experienced a 15.3% increase in streamflow over the last 24 hours, potentially hinting at rising water levels that may affect nearby communities and popular whitewater trails.
In particular, the Kansas River, a key waterway that runs through major cities like Topeka and near recreational spots like Wamego and DeSoto, is experiencing lower streamflow in most locations, with the site at Topeka showing a 13.64% increase in the last 24 hours reaching a flow of 1500 cfs, yet still -66.93% below normal. This could signal emerging flood risks if the trend continues. The Marais Des Cygnes River, another significant river that affects southeastern Kansas, is also experiencing low flows, with the river near the Kansas-Missouri state line at -95.11% of normal flow, which is concerning for ecosystems and water supply in the region. Meanwhile, the Cottonwood River near Florence is one of the few reporting above-normal flow levels, indicating localized wetter conditions. Overall, Kansas river conditions display substantial variability with several areas under potential stress from low water levels, while others are facing increased streamflows that may raise the risk of flooding, demanding attention from river users and water management officials.
Kansas has a sub-humid continental climate with hot summers and cold winters, receiving an average annual precipitation of 31 inches. The major rivers are the Kansas, Arkansas, and Republican, with their tributaries forming a network of smaller streams. The state is not heavily dammed, and major reservoirs are primarily located in the eastern part of the state. The state's hydrology is dominated by the Ogallala Aquifer, which supplies water to agriculture, industry, and municipalities. Snowpack is generally low in Kansas due to its location in the Great Plains. Flash floods and droughts are the primary hydrologic hazards in the state, often resulting from intense rainfall events or prolonged periods of low precipitation.