Last Updated: December 17, 2025
River flow conditions across Texas reveal significant deviations from normal streamflow levels, with many rivers experiencing lower than average flows that may impact various activities, including recreation and water resource management. The Red River near De Kalb, a significant waterway, is currently flowing at 827 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is a startling 90.12% below its normal flow, indicating a potential flow drought that could affect ecosystems and downstream water availability. Similarly, the Sabine River, a major watershed with multiple monitoring points, shows consistently reduced flows, such as near Ruliff (76% below normal) and near Burkeville (over 90% below normal), which are concerning for both water enthusiasts and the environment.
Whitewater trails and recreational river activities may be significantly hampered as evident by key streamflow changes; for instance, the Neches River near Neches shows a sharp 21.2 cfs decrease in flow within the last 24 hours and is running at 70.06% below normal levels. Furthermore, the Trinity River, which traverses through major cities like Dallas, is also reporting lower streamflow values with the section at Dallas flowing at 603 cfs, down 15.96 cfs and 62.67% below its typical flow. However, the East Fork Trinity River near Forney stands out with a staggering 613.42% above normal flow at 6120 cfs, alongside an increase of 138.13 cfs over the last day, raising concerns for potential flooding and the need for vigilance by local authorities. It is crucial for river users to stay informed about current conditions, as low flows can affect water quality and the health of aquatic habitats, while high flows may pose risks for flooding, especially for communities and popular river trails like those found along the Trinity River.
Texas has a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. Major surface flows include the Rio Grande, Colorado, and Brazos rivers, among others. The state has numerous reservoirs and dams, including the 200-mile-long Lake Texoma and the 170-mile-long Lake Travis. Hydrology in Texas is influenced by seasonal changes in precipitation, particularly in the spring and fall. Major tributaries include the Guadalupe, Nueces, and Trinity rivers. Watershed data is important for understanding the hydrology of Texas, with notable watersheds including the Red River, Sabine River, and San Antonio River. Snowpack data in the western mountains of Texas can also play a role in the state's hydrology, particularly during drought conditions.