MONTANA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: March 10, 2026

In Montana, river enthusiasts and water resource managers are observing seasonal trends as well as anomalies in streamflows across the state's river systems. Notably, the Missouri River at Fort Benton is flowing at 4120 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is below the normal range by 23.22%, indicating the potential for flow drought conditions. Contrarily, the Middle Fork Flathead River near West Glacier reveals an increase in streamflow, with a current rate of 1530 cfs and 74.55% of the typical flow, suggesting elevated activity suitable for whitewater adventures. However, caution is advised as the Milk River at Moorhead saw a remarkable surge, with streamflow jumping to 620.93% above the last recorded rate, possibly hinting at flooding risks.

Drilling down into more specific details, the Smith River near Eden saw a significant increase of 26.19 cfs in the last 24 hours, yet it remains below the normal by 23.02%, which could impact fishing conditions and water availability downstream. The Yellowstone River, crucial for both ecological and recreational activities, displays varied conditions, with the section at Corwin Springs running at 945 cfs, a modest increase over the last day, and maintaining a healthy 11.55% above the normal flow. Meanwhile, the Bighorn River near St. Xavier is experiencing a notable decrease, flowing at 1730 cfs, 38% below the normal, which could affect irrigation and angling opportunities in the region. As streamflow conditions continue to change, residents and visitors are encouraged to stay updated on the latest river reports for their safety and to maximize their enjoyment of Montana's waterways.

       




       

Winter Storm Warnings

March 10 2026

Montanans are urged to brace for extreme weather conditions, including a Winter Weather Advisory with snow accumulations of 1 to 4 inches, affecting Southern Big Horn until 8 AM MDT on March 11. Additionally, a High Wind Watch is in effect across central and south central Montana, with gusts up to 90 mph posing risks of power outages and travel disruptions through March 12 at 9:00 PM MDT. Blizzard conditions with up to 3 feet of snow and wind gusts as high as 95 mph are possible along the Continental Divide and the Rocky Mountain Front until March 13 at 6 PM MDT. Residents, especially in and around Billings, Great Falls, and the Beartooth Foothills, should prepare for hazardous travel and potential power outages, and consider delaying all non-essential travel.


Rafting & Kayaking

River Run Status Streamflow (CFS) Air Temp (F)
Alberton Gorge (St. John to Forrest Grove)
Class III to IV
33.44
Bear Creek to Essex
Class II to III+
RUNNABLE 445 55
Beartrap Canyon - Madison Dam to Route 84
Class III to IV
RUNNABLE 1030 46
Bible Run
Class III to IV
RUNNABLE 529 54
Big Creek to Glacier Rim
Class III- to III
RUNNABLE 1380 47
Border to Polebridge
Class II to II+
TOO LOW 432 45
Camp Baker to Eden Bridge
Class II to II+
RUNNABLE 1970 41
Essex to Moccasin Creek
Class II+
RUNNABLE 1290 49
Gardiner Town Run
Class III- to III+
RUNNABLE 1080 43
Glacier RIm to Blankenship Bridge and Confluence
Class II
RUNNABLE 4590 49
Missoula Town Run
Class II to II+
RUNNABLE 958 49
Moccasin Creek to West Glacier (John Stevens Canyon)
Class II+ to III+
RUNNABLE 4310 53
Moose to Storm Castle
Class III+ to IV+
RUNNABLE 308 51
Polebridge to Big Creek
Class II to III-
RUNNABLE 4590 49
Schafer Meadows to Bear Creek (Upper)
Class III+ to IV+
RUNNABLE 4310 53
West Glacier to Blankenship Bridge
Class II+ to III
RUNNABLE 4310 53
Yankee Jim Canyon (Joe Brown to Miner)
Class III to III+
RUNNABLE 1080 43
       
View all

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