MISSOURI FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

In Missouri, river enthusiasts and water resource managers are observing a trend of below-average streamflows throughout the state's major watersheds, including the Missouri, Meramec, and Osage rivers. Current data reveals that many rivers are experiencing significantly reduced streamflows, with the Meramec River near Eureka flowing at just 858 cubic feet per second (cfs), 55.24% below its normal level. This pattern is replicated across the state, with the Osage River near Bagnell flowing at 54.81% of its usual rate and the Des Moines River at St. Francisville, MO reporting a 75.44% reduction from normal flow levels. Additionally, gage heights are also notably lower, with the Missouri River at St. Charles observing a gage height of 6.16 feet, indicative of decreased water volumes that might affect recreational activities and ecosystem health.

Among the most affected is the St. Francis River Near Patterson, with streamflow at a mere 253 cfs, 85.8% below its normal rate, which could impact both the local ecosystem and water-based recreation. The Missouri River, a significant commercial and recreational waterway, has also seen a reduction in streamflow, with its gauge at Jefferson City registering a flow of 29,400 cfs, reflecting a 40.51% decrease. These low flow conditions could have implications for cities and towns along these rivers, potentially affecting water supplies and recreational activities such as fishing and whitewater sports. Notably, popular whitewater trails may also be less navigable due to reduced flows, impacting the whitewater rafting season. While current conditions suggest a widespread trend of flow reductions, river watchers should remain vigilant for sudden increases that could indicate flooding, especially during seasonal weather events that may alter these trends abruptly.