NEW JERSEY FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: January 2, 2026

The streamflow report for New Jersey's rivers reveals significant deviations from normal levels, with a majority of the observed rivers experiencing lower-than-average flow rates. Notably, the Delaware River, a critical waterway traversing the state, is showing decreased flow at various monitoring points. For instance, at Montague, NJ, the Delaware River's current streamflow is 3,930 cubic feet per second (cfs), marking a 46.99% drop from what is considered normal for this location. At Trenton, NJ, the flow is at 6,880 cfs, a substantial 71.66% below normal, despite a recent 24-hour increase of 28.36 cfs. Such low flows may be of concern to recreational users and could impact water availability and ecosystem health.

Looking at smaller rivers, the Toms River near Toms River, NJ, and the Passaic River at Pine Brook, NJ, are also reporting lower streamflows, currently at 156 cfs and 252 cfs, respectively. These are significantly reduced flows, with the Toms River at 51.71% below normal. Additionally, the Pompton and Ramapo Rivers are experiencing reduced flows by over 65%, indicating potential flow drought conditions that may affect local communities and habitats. Gage heights, such as the elevated 12.71 feet at Pine Brook and 16.88 feet at Bound Brook on the Raritan River, could be indicative of wide riverbeds with shallow water levels, which may hinder water-based recreational activities. While the Delaware and Raritan Canal at Port Mercer shows a slight streamflow increase, this is an exception among the generally low streamflow trends across New Jersey's rivers. Water enthusiasts, municipal managers, and conservationists should monitor these levels closely, as the persistence of such trends could lead to ecological impacts and necessitate water conservation measures.