OHIO FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Ohio's river and stream conditions reflect a range of flow variations that are critical for water enthusiasts and communities to monitor. Recently, the state has experienced a mix of below-normal streamflows alongside some notable exceptions, with several waterways reporting substantial deviations from their average conditions. For instance, the Maumee River at Waterville indicates a current streamflow of 433 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is a striking 89.91% below the norm, potentially affecting the recreational activities in the area. However, the Sandusky River near Fremont stands out with a flow of 1700 cfs, which is 15.47% above its expected level, raising concerns about possible flooding in adjacent regions. Significant decreases in streamflow have been recorded, such as the Auglaize River near Defiance plummeting to 151 cfs, a drastic 91.85% below normal, indicating potential flow drought conditions. Cities along these rivers, including Defiance, Fremont, and Waterville, should stay vigilant for water-related impacts.

Furthermore, the Cuyahoga River at Hiram Rapids exhibits an unusual increase to 520 cfs, 130.73% above its average, which might entice whitewater enthusiasts but also signals a need for caution due to rapidly changing conditions. Similarly, the Grand River near Painesville, at a flow of 1900 cfs, is slightly above normal by 3.23%, which could affect both recreational uses and the ecological balance. Conversely, the Scioto River at Columbus, with a flow of 1070 cfs, is experiencing a 49.7% reduction from what is typical, highlighting the variability within Ohio's watersheds. These flow anomalies underline the importance of monitoring stream conditions for the safety and enjoyment of recreational users, as well as for the management and planning by local communities along these watercourses.

       



Ohio's hydrology is influenced by its location in the midwestern United States, experiencing a humid continental climate. Major surface waters include Lake Erie and the Ohio River, which flows through the state and serves as a border with neighboring Kentucky and West Virginia. Other major rivers and tributaries include the Muskingum River, the Cuyahoga River, and the Maumee River. The state's hydrology is impacted by numerous reservoirs and dams, including the Hoover Reservoir and the Grand Lake St. Marys. Snowpack and watershed data are also relevant in Ohio's hydrology, with the state experiencing frequent snowfall in the winter months and a variety of watersheds throughout the state.