OKLAHOMA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: January 23, 2026

Oklahoma's river enthusiasts should take note of the current streamflow trends which show a mix of below and above-normal flows across the state. The Arkansas River at Tulsa stands out with a robust streamflow of 10,500 cubic feet per second (cfs), almost hitting the normal mark with 96.65% of its typical flow, indicating good conditions for water activities but also the need to be cautious of potential rising waters. In contrast, the Neosho River near Chouteau is flowing at a mere 10.14% of its normal rate, with a significantly low streamflow of 390 cfs, suggesting a flow drought that could affect local ecosystems and water availability. The Canadian River at Norman exhibits an elevated gage height of 86.23 feet, though the streamflow is lower than normal at 225 cfs, which may affect water recreation in the area.

Particularly worth noting are the abnormally low streamflows in the Illinois River, with sites near Tahlequah and Watts reporting streamflows less than half of their normal rates, which could potentially impact whitewater trails popular among kayakers and rafters. The Red River near Gainesville shows an increase in streamflow by 6.8 cfs, but at 220 cfs, it remains well below normal levels, mirroring a broader trend of below-normal streamflows seen in other parts of the watershed. Cities like Muskogee, near the Arkansas River, could see impacts from a streamflow decrease of over 50 cfs to 2,440 cfs, highlighting a potential concern for both water supply and flood management. Water enthusiasts and stakeholders in Oklahoma should remain vigilant to these changing conditions, which could affect popular water trails, local water resources, and flood risks across the state.