Wichita

Watershed Hydrology

The Wichita Watershed (HUC 11130206) covers an area of approximately 1,740 square miles in southwestern Oklahoma. The hydrology of the area is characterized by a mix of streams and reservoirs that are heavily influenced by precipitation and snowmelt. The watershed typically receives around 30 inches of precipitation annually, with the majority falling in the spring and summer months. Snowpack is generally minimal in the region, but occasional winter storms can bring significant accumulation. Surface water in the watershed is used for irrigation, recreation, and municipal water supply. Reservoirs in the area contain a mix of constituents, including sediment, nutrients, and pollutants from agricultural and urban runoff. Interesting climatic facts for the area include frequent droughts and heat waves, as well as occasional severe weather such as tornadoes and flash floods. In recent years, there has been a trend towards more extreme weather events in the region, potentially due to climate change.


Surface Flows

Wichita Watershed

Snowpack Depths

Wichita Watershed

Dams & Reservoirs

Wichita Watershed

Groundwater Levels

Wichita Watershed

Wichita Rivers

Rivers of the Watershed