NORTH DAKOTA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: January 12, 2026

North Dakota's water enthusiasts should note several significant trends and events in the state's river system as revealed by recent streamflow data. Currently, the Red River of the North shows variable streamflows with the site at Wahpeton reporting a flow of 253 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is significantly below the seasonal norm at -47.1%. Similarly, at the Fargo station, a 62.12% below normal flow indicates a possible flow drought, while the Grand Forks station reports a flow of 1510 cfs, showing a small 24-hour increase yet still -52.2% below normal, signaling irregular conditions. On the other hand, the Sheyenne River at Cooperstown experienced an alarming 24-hour increase of nearly 60 cfs, indicating potential for flooding, especially if such trends continue. These anomalies across major rivers and watersheds could have implications for cities along these waterways and may affect recreational activities, such as whitewater trails.

In contrast, the Pembina River at Walhalla presents a different scenario with streamflow much above the average (62.53%), which is currently measured at 138 cfs, suggesting a keen interest point for river activities due to increased water levels. In terms of gage height, the Sheyenne River near Horace hits a noteworthy 14.54 feet, while the Red River at Thompson peaks at 16.61 feet, both of which should be monitored for possible water level escalations that could impact the surrounding communities. Meanwhile, the Missouri River at Bismarck, a critical water source for the state, flows at 16700 cfs, which is slightly lower (-6.69%) than what is typically expected. These figures provide a snapshot of the state's varied hydrological conditions, with certain areas experiencing potential for flow-related issues, while others may appeal to water-based recreation enthusiasts seeking higher water levels for their activities.