NEW HAMPSHIRE FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

The current river and streamflow conditions in New Hampshire reveal notable trends and several outliers that river enthusiasts and locals should be aware of. Across the state, many rivers are experiencing below-average flow conditions, with significant deficits observed in the Saco, Pemigewasset, Souhegan, Merrimack, Contoocook, and Connecticut Rivers. For instance, the Saco River near Conway is flowing at 473 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is 62.87% below the norm for this time of year, while the Merrimack River near Goffs Falls shows a steep 29.2 cfs decrease over the last 24 hours, with streamflow at a low 1600 cfs, 76.05% under the normal rate. These lower flow rates could affect recreational activities, such as kayaking or fishing, and may be indicative of broader environmental concerns like flow droughts.

Standout exceptions to this trend include the Connecticut River near Dalton, where a surge in streamflow is recorded at 1310 cfs, a substantial increase of 112.66 cfs in the last 24 hours, which currently sits at 59.03% below normal. This rapid increase could raise concerns for potential flooding and impact areas like North Walpole, which is already experiencing high gage heights. Whitewater trails and other river sports in areas like the Androscoggin River near Gorham and at Errol, where streamflows are relatively stable at 1740 cfs and 1520 cfs respectively, may still be enjoyed but with caution for any sudden changes. Residents and enthusiasts along these rivers, including major watersheds and cities such as Conway, Plymouth, Merrimack, and those near the Connecticut River, should stay informed on current conditions as fluctuations continue.

       



New Hampshire has a humid continental climate with cold winters and warm, humid summers. Major surface flows include the Connecticut River, which forms the western border of the state, and the Merrimack River, which flows through the central part of the state. The Pemigewasset, Saco, and Androscoggin Rivers are also significant. There are numerous reservoirs and dams in the state, including the Amoskeag Dam on the Merrimack River. Hydrology in New Hampshire is influenced by precipitation patterns, which vary widely across the state. Snowpack in the winter months is a major source of water for rivers and streams in the spring and summer. The state's many watersheds, including the Connecticut River watershed, play a critical role in determining flow conditions.