VERMONT FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Vermont's river conditions exhibit a notable decrease in streamflows across multiple locations, signaling potential challenges for water-related activities and ecosystem health. Particularly, the Connecticut River at Wells River, a significant waterway for both ecological diversity and recreational use, shows a streamflow of 1410 cubic feet per second (cfs), which has dropped by 6.62 cfs in the last 24 hours and is currently at 71.52 percent below what is considered normal for this time of year. Similarly, the Winooski River, central to Montpelier's scenic beauty and outdoor recreation, is flowing at 321 cfs, a 16.73 cfs increase from the previous day, yet still 60.62 percent below normal levels. Such trends suggest caution for river enthusiasts, including those interested in whitewater trails like the one on the West River at Jamaica, which is also experiencing diminished flows at 169 cfs, 69.57 percent below the norm and a potential indicator of flow drought conditions.

Outdoor and whitewater enthusiasts should be aware that popular rivers such as the Otter Creek at Middlebury and the Lamoille River at East Georgia are demonstrating significant deviations from their normal streamflow, with measurements of 652 cfs and 919 cfs respectively, both indicating more than a 50 percent decrease from average flows. This can affect not only the whitewater conditions but also the health of aquatic habitats. The Lamoille River at East Georgia, despite showing a positive change of 18.89 cfs in the last 24 hours, still reflects a 52.13 percent deficit compared to typical flow rates. These patterns, particularly if they signal the onset of a prolonged dry period, warrant attention from conservationists and local authorities in Vermont's cities and communities that rely on these rivers. Additionally, water level changes, such as the rise in gage height at the Little River near Waterbury to 6.73 feet, should be monitored for potential flooding risks, especially after heavy rainfalls or rapid snowmelts in the surrounding catchment areas.