SOUTH DAKOTA FLOW REPORT
Last Updated: December 19, 2025
Streamflow levels across
South Dakota
are currently
453.0% of normal, with the
Whetstone River Near Big Stone City
reporting the highest discharge in the state with
29300cfs and gauge stage of 2.07 ft.
Meanwhile, the
Whetstone River Near Big Stone City
is seeing a spike in streamflows today after experiencing a
76401.31%
increase since yesterday, and currently running at
29300cfs.
Maximum gauge stage in the state was last observed at the
James River At Nd-Sd State Line, currently reporting a stage of
89.03ft.
The
Whetstone River Near Big Stone City
in the
Upper Minnesota
watershed
is surging for this time of year at
29300cfs, about
2426.97% of normal.
South Dakota has a humid continental climate with four distinct seasons. The Missouri River, which forms the eastern border of the state, is the largest and most significant surface flow. It is subject to extreme flooding during spring and summer due to snowmelt and heavy rainfall. Other major rivers include the Cheyenne, James, and Big Sioux. The state has several reservoirs and dams, including the Oahe, Fort Randall, and Big Bend dams, which provide flood control, irrigation, and hydroelectric power. South Dakota's hydrology is influenced by its topography, soil type, and vegetation cover, which affect the amount and rate of water infiltration and runoff. The state's snowpack and precipitation patterns are important factors in determining water availability and storage.