NORTH DAKOTA FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: December 27, 2025
North Dakota's river and streamflow trends reveal several areas of concern for water enthusiasts and local communities, particularly along the Red River of the North and the Sheyenne River. Currently, the Red River at Fargo is experiencing significantly reduced streamflow at 284 cubic feet per second (cfs), a notable 62.12% below normal, coupled with a recent decrease of 21.55 cfs in the last 24 hours, which could affect activities around this major urban center. Similarly, the Sheyenne River near Kindred is only marginally below normal flow (-2.3%) but has seen a recent increase in streamflow of 12.71 cfs, indicating a potential for localized increases in water levels. Water enthusiasts should note both the Sheyenne River at Lisbon with a flow of 222 cfs, 31.87% below normal, and the Sheyenne below Baldhill Dam, with flow at 128 cfs, 13.54% below normal, indicating potential flow droughts in these areas.
Noteworthy exceptions to these lower streamflows include the Little Missouri River near Watford City, which is above the typical flow at 510 cfs, and the Pembina River at Walhalla, with a substantial 41.1 cfs increase in the last 24 hours, now reporting streamflows 62.53% above normal. These could hint at flooding risks or at least significant water level rises. The Missouri River at Bismarck, a major waterway for the state, shows a streamflow of 16700 cfs, slightly below normal yet reflecting a recent increase of 5.03 cfs. Recreational users should be cautious of these changing conditions, particularly on popular whitewater trails or fishing spots, as they may impact safety and accessibility. Additionally, cities and agricultural areas along these rivers need to stay alert to the changing water levels, which could affect water management strategies and preparedness for potential flooding or water scarcity.
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.
Winter Storm Warnings
December 27 2025
Residents of North Dakota, particularly those in northwest and central regions as well as the James River Valley, should exercise extreme caution due to a Dense Fog Advisory in effect until noon CST today, with visibility dropping to a quarter mile or less. This fog could lead to hazardous driving conditions and may deposit a thin layer of ice on roads and surfaces. Additionally, a Wind Advisory is in place for south central and southwest North Dakota with strong northwest winds and gusts up to 45 mph expected from late afternoon through early morning, potentially causing unsecured objects to be dangerous projectiles. Moreover, areas including Benson, Cavalier, Ramsey, Towner, and Western Walsh Counties should be aware of a Winter Weather Advisory due to potential light freezing drizzle or freezing rain, creating slick and hazardous roads. Residents should stay alert, secure outdoor items, and avoid unnecessary travel.
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