NEW YORK FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Streamflow conditions across New York's rivers and streams present a mixed picture, with several areas showing significantly lower than normal flows, which may concern water enthusiasts looking for consistent conditions. Notably, the Delaware River system, encompassing the East and West Branches, demonstrates variable conditions. The West Branch Delaware River at Stilesville reports a current streamflow of 151 cfs, which is a substantial 75.73% below the norm, potentially affecting whitewater trails in the area and indicating potential flow droughts. Conversely, the West Branch Delaware River at Hale Eddy shows a streamflow of 429 cfs, still 61.63% below normal, but with a less severe deviation.

Water levels at major rivers such as the Susquehanna, with a noteworthy streamflow of 6280 cfs at Windsor, reflect a slight increase (4.37%) above average, which could hint at potential flooding risks if trends continue, particularly near Conklin and Bainbridge where flows are just below normal. In the Genesee River basin, conditions are varied with locations like Wellsville showing reduced flows at 429 cfs, 43.61% below normal, while further downstream at Avon, streamflows have risen slightly above average to 4920 cfs. The Hudson River, a critical waterway for multiple communities, shows decreased streamflows, with a notable measurement at Green Island of 15500 cfs, 37.58% below normal, which could impact recreational activities and aquatic habitats. For kayaking and canoeing enthusiasts, the Cazenovia Creek at Ebenezer experienced a dramatic increase in streamflow of 308.85% above normal to 1570 cfs, and the Tonawanda Creek at Batavia surged to a remarkable 524.01% above the norm at 3140 cfs, signaling potential flooding and hazardous conditions in these areas. Overall, river and stream conditions across New York are diverse, with certain locations experiencing abnormally low flows while others face potential flooding, requiring vigilance from river users and local communities.

       



New York State has a diverse hydrological landscape with significant variations in flow conditions. Major surface flows include the Hudson River, Lake Ontario, and the Great Lakes. The state's reservoirs and dams, including the Ashokan Reservoir and the Niagara Falls hydroelectric plant, play an important role in water management. The state's climate characteristics, with humid summers and cold winters, can have significant impacts on hydrological patterns. Major rivers and tributaries include the Mohawk River, the Genesee River, and the Delaware River. Snowpack and watershed data are also important factors in understanding New York's hydrology, with snowmelt contributing to springtime runoff and potentially affecting water availability during the summer months.


       

Winter Storm Warnings

January 1 2026

Residents of New York, particularly in counties such as Oswego, Oneida, Onondaga, Wayne, Northern Cayuga, Wyoming, Chautauqua, Cattaraugus, and Southern Erie, are being cautioned of heavy lake effect snow as winter storm warnings and watches have been issued by the National Weather Service. Accumulations could surpass 7 inches in Onondaga and Oneida, with Oswego County facing the possibility of 1 to 4 feet of snow and intense snowfall rates. The Eastern Lake Ontario Region is also significantly affected. Travel could become extremely difficult to impossible, with near-zero visibility and deep snow expected, impacting major cities like Syracuse as well as smaller towns. The hazardous conditions are likely to affect Friday's commutes, and residents are advised to prepare for severe travel impacts and the potential of becoming stranded.


Rafting & Kayaking

River Run Status Streamflow (CFS) Air Temp (F)
Bottom (Fowlersville to Lyons Falls)
Class III+ to V-
54.86
       
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