NORTH DAKOTA FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: December 4, 2025
In North Dakota, river enthusiasts and water resource managers should take note of the current streamflow trends that vary significantly across the state's major rivers. The Red River of the North, a key waterway, is experiencing lower-than-normal flows in most parts, with the flow at Grand Forks measured at 1,510 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is 52.2% below the seasonal norm and a slight 24-hour increase of 2.72 cfs. Similarly, the Sheyenne River is also reporting reduced flows, notably near Lisbon at 222 cfs, down 31.87% from what's typical. Conversely, the Pembina River at Walhalla is experiencing a surge, with flows at 138 cfs, 62.53% above normal after a significant 24-hour rise of 41.1 cfs. These variations suggest the potential for flow droughts in some areas, while others could be at risk of flooding.
The Missouri River at Bismarck, a vital waterway, has a notably high flow of 14,100 cfs, although this is still 22.14% below the expected level, indicating that while flows are substantial, they are not anomalously so. With these conditions, cities like Fargo, Grand Forks, and Bismarck should remain vigilant for water-related impacts. Whitewater trails on the Little Missouri River near Watford City are seeing a flow of 135 cfs, up a dramatic 50.0 cfs in the last 24 hours, reaching 63.1% above the norm, which could attract adventurers but also warrants caution. Overall, water conditions across North Dakota are mixed this season, with several rivers running below their average flows, raising concerns for water availability and ecosystem health in those areas, while others have elevated flows that heighten the alert for potential flooding.
North Dakota is situated in the northern Great Plains, with a predominantly continental climate characterized by cold winters and warm summers. The Missouri River is the largest river flow in the state, with a variety of tributaries, reservoirs, and dams that help provide hydroelectric power, irrigation, and flood control. Other major surface flows in North Dakota include the Red River of the North, the Souris River, and the Devils Lake Basin. Snowpack and precipitation play a significant role in the state's hydrology, with the western portions of North Dakota receiving more precipitation than the east. Watershed management is important in North Dakota to help maintain water quality and quantity for agricultural, industrial, and domestic use.
Explore Rivers
- Cannonball River
- Deep River
- Forest River
- Goose River
- Green River
- Heart River
- James River
- Knife River
- Little Missouri River
- Little Muddy River
- Maple River
- Missouri River
- Park River
- Pembina River
- Rush River
- Sheyenne River
- Souris River
- Tongue River
- Turtle River
- White Earth River
- Wild Rice River
- Wintering River