MINNESOTA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: January 2, 2026

As of the latest data, Minnesota's river streamflows exhibit a mix of underwhelming and surging patterns, with several waterways reporting lower-than-average flows, potentially impacting recreational activities and ecological health. The Mississippi River at Royalton, a key river for the state, has seen a 14.18 cubic feet per second (cfs) rise in streamflow over the last 24 hours, resulting in flows that are more than 13% above normal, indicating a watch for potential flooding concerns. Such spikes in streamflow are vital for river enthusiasts to note, especially for those frequenting popular whitewater trails. Conversely, the Pigeon River at Middle Falls near Grand Portage and the St. Louis River at Scanlon are experiencing significantly reduced flows at 54.58% and 56.36% below normal, respectively, which could signal flow drought conditions impacting water-based recreation and local ecosystems.

Specifically, the Mississippi River near Bemidji shows signs of a minor increase in flow by 7.64 cfs, but still registers 15.33% below the seasonal norm, while the Crow River at Rockford displays a sharp 17.7 cfs decrease, sitting at a concerning 51.2% below normal. Such statistics may affect river traffic and recreational fishing. In terms of flooding potential, the Minnesota River at Montevideo has had a 6.47 cfs increase, and with streamflows now over 8% above normal, this could raise concerns for adjacent communities like Montevideo. The Chippewa River near Watson stands out with a 102.82% above-normal flow rate, which could indicate a high water level that warrants attention for both residential safety and recreational users. Water enthusiasts and residents along these rivers should stay informed of the changes, as the dynamic nature of streamflow can rapidly alter river conditions, impacting accessibility, safety, and the health of local fauna and flora.