NEVADA FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: December 4, 2025
Nevada's rivers and streams present a diverse flow profile as we move from the drier basins near Las Vegas to the more mountainous regions of the state. In the Las Vegas region, Las Vegas Wash at Pabco Rd near Henderson is flowing at 426 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is only 16.56% of its normal flow, indicating a period of low water availability in this typically arid zone. Similarly, the Truckee River, critical for both Reno and Sparks, is experiencing below-normal flows with Truckee River near Sparks at 379 cfs, 22.2% below its expected flow, which could impact local water enthusiasts and ecosystems. Conversely, the LV Wash below Flamingo Wash Confluence near Las Vegas has surged to 498 cfs, a staggering 1711.57% of its normal rate, signaling potential flooding risks for the area.
Key waterways like the Colorado River below Davis Dam are flowing at a robust 5050 cfs but show a minor 24-hour decrease in streamflow, which should be monitored for consistency in the trend. The Carson River, vital to Carson City, exhibits a streamflow of 167 cfs near the city, which is currently reduced by 15.93% from its normal flow. Up north, the Walker River, which holds significance for agricultural irrigation, shows higher than average flows at its Little Dam location, with a streamflow of 107 cfs, a substantial 154.82% of its typical rate. This variation underscores a need for river users to be vigilant of changing conditions, particularly during recreational activities like whitewater rafting. While certain areas of Nevada face the challenges of flow droughts, others must be wary of unexpected surges that could lead to flooding, highlighting the dynamic and oftentimes unpredictable nature of river flows in the state.
Nevada's climate is arid and semi-arid, with most precipitation occurring as snow in the mountains during the winter months. Major surface flows include the Humboldt River, Truckee River, and Walker River, which are heavily managed and regulated due to their importance for agriculture and urban water supplies. Major reservoirs/dams include Lake Mead, Lake Tahoe, and the Hoover Dam. Nevada's hydrology is heavily influenced by its geology, with a high degree of groundwater storage and limited surface water availability. Snowpack data is critical for water management, with the majority of the state's water supply coming from snowmelt. The Colorado River Basin also plays a significant role in Nevada's water resources, with the state receiving a portion of its allocation from the basin.