KENTUCKY FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: December 22, 2025
Kentucky's rivers and streams are currently experiencing varied streamflow conditions, with significant deviations from normal flow rates that may impact river activities and local ecosystems. Notably, the Ohio River at Greenup Dam near Greenup, KY, and its counterpart at Markland Dam near Warsaw, KY, have reported streamflows significantly above normal, with current readings of 111,000 and 128,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), respectively, indicating possible flooding conditions. Conversely, many locations, such as Tug Fork at Williamson and Levisa Fork at Pikeville, are experiencing reduced flows at 546 cfs and 630 cfs, which are 58.4% and 62.54% below their normal rates, potentially indicating flow droughts that could affect water supply and recreational activities, such as whitewater trails along these rivers.
Cities like Louisville and Frankfort along the Kentucky River should be alert as flow rates have been observed to decrease significantly, posing potential impacts on water availability and recreational use. The Kentucky River at Lock 10 near Winchester, KY, for instance, has seen a decrease to 4,730 cfs, sitting at 24.92% below normal. The South Fork Cumberland River near Stearns, KY, however, showed an unusual increase in streamflow, spiking to 195 cfs, which is 78% above normal, suggesting a sudden influx possibly from upstream rainfall or release from a dam, which could affect the surrounding areas. Water enthusiasts, particularly those interested in whitewater activities near the South Fork Cumberland River, should exercise caution due to the unpredictable conditions. Overall, the state's riverine environment presents a mixture of risks and opportunities for river users, demanding close monitoring for any changes that may warrant advisories or changes in water use practices.
Kentucky has a humid subtropical climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters with a high frequency of precipitation. The major rivers in Kentucky include the Ohio, Kentucky, Cumberland, and Tennessee rivers, which are all major tributaries to the Mississippi River. The Ohio River is the largest flow in the state and is heavily used for commercial transportation. Kentucky also has several large reservoirs and dams, including the Kentucky Dam, Barkley Dam, and Wolf Creek Dam. These dams regulate flow and provide hydroelectric power to the region. The state's hydrology is affected by the Appalachian Mountains, which contribute to increased runoff in the eastern part of the state. Snowpack is not a significant factor in Kentucky's hydrology.