WASHINGTON FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Washington State's river systems are currently experiencing a mix of conditions, with noticeable variations in streamflow across different regions. The Spokane River, for example, at Spokane is recording streamflows at 14600 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is significantly above the normal at 181.28 percent, potentially raising concerns for flooding in the area. Conversely, Hangman Creek at Spokane's flow is markedly below normal levels at -58.5 percent, indicating a potential flow drought. For water enthusiasts, the above-normal streamflow of the Spokane River could suggest favorable conditions for whitewater activities, while the low flow in Hangman Creek might limit recreational opportunities.

Among the major rivers, the Columbia River at the International Boundary is flowing at a near-normal rate (93000 cfs at 2.26 percent above normal), while the Pend Oreille River below Box Canyon is below normal at 71.64 percent. The Kettle River near Ferry shows a large increase in streamflow in the last 24 hours with an 18.33 percent rise, whereas the Little Spokane River near Dartford is extremely below normal flow, which could be indicative of flow drought conditions. Rivers such as the Okanogan and Methow are near or above normal flows, which should be monitored for any sudden increases that may hint at flood risks. The provided data also indicates that communities along these rivers, particularly those near Spokane and areas susceptible to flooding from the Spokane River, should stay informed about current conditions and be prepared for any necessary response to changing water levels.