Live Flood Map & Real-Time River Flood Monitor
Last Updated: December 24 2025
Active flooding, river flood stages, and rising water levels across the United States.
Current Flooding Across the United States
Nationwide flooding has reached critical levels in several areas, prompting urgent evacuation orders and life-threatening situations. Water levels in Middle Pearl-Strong, Middle San Joaquin-Lower, Buffalo-San Jacinto, North Fork American, Truckee, and Lower Sulphur have skyrocketed past the past measurements, with some rivers experiencing streamflow increases of more than 1000%. Towns and cities along these rivers, including Jackson (Middle Pearl-Strong), Modesto (Middle San Joaquin-Lower), Houston (Buffalo-San Jacinto), Auburn (North Fork American), Reno (Truckee), and Sulphur Springs (Lower Sulphur), are facing imminent danger as the floodwaters rise. The extraordinary swell in river levels could lead to catastrophic flooding, threatening lives, homes, and infrastructure.
Specifically, the Middle San Joaquin-Lower near Modesto is seeing water levels 747% above normal, which could potentially inundate the region, exacerbating the ongoing crisis as California braces for more storms. The situation is compounded by the recent Hurricane Melissa, which left a trail of destruction in the Caribbean and now, with other storm systems, is pressing threatening weather patterns toward the U.S. coast. In Houston, the memory of Hurricane Harvey's devastation lingers, and with the Buffalo-San Jacinto watershed at an alarming 1047% above normal, residents are on edge as the appellate court recently ruled in favor of upstream homeowners in a related flooding case. In Sarasota, even as the groundbreaking for a major flood prevention project takes place, cities like Sarasota and others in California, such as San Diego and San Francisco, are issuing evacuation orders and preparing for the worst amid warnings of an incoming storm that could bring severe flooding and power outages, highlighting an urgent need for immediate action and community readiness.
The extreme weather events, including the rare 'high risk' of flooding in Southern California, are a stark reminder of the changing climate and its impact on our environment. With the holiday season upon us, concerns escalate over the potential for a 'bomb cyclone' and near hurricane-force winds to worsen the situation, urging residents to heed evacuation warnings and prepare for widespread flooding. As the nation grapples with such unpredictable weather patterns, the importance of flood preparedness and sustainable infrastructure has never been more apparent. The data is a call to action, emphasizing the need for immediate and long-term solutions to mitigate the impact of these increasingly common and severe flooding events.
Rivers Currently Flooding or Rising
What Causes River Flooding?
- Heavy or prolonged rainfall
- Rapid snowmelt
- Ice jams restricting river flow
- Storm surge in coastal areas
- Reservoir releases and dam operations
Floods are a recurring and devastating natural hazard, causing widespread destruction and posing significant risks to communities across the globe. These inundations result from various factors, with heavy precipitation being a primary trigger. During severe weather events such as hurricanes, tropical storms, or intense thunderstorms, copious rainfall can overwhelm local drainage systems and lead to flash floods.
Flood Safety & Preparedness
Floodwaters can rise rapidly and become dangerous. Stay informed, follow official warnings, and avoid travel through flooded areas.
- Never drive through flooded roadways
- Monitor river levels near your location
- Prepare evacuation plans if flooding is forecast
Various strategies and measures have been implemented at different levels of governance. Improved floodplain management is essential, which involves regulating construction and development in flood-prone areas. Implementing resilient infrastructure, such as constructing levees, floodwalls, and dams, helps to protect vulnerable regions from rising waters. Early warning systems and flood forecasting technologies play a crucial role in providing timely alerts to at-risk communities, enabling them to take precautionary measures and evacuate if necessary.
Flood Map & River Monitoring FAQs
What is flood stage?
Flood stage is the river level at which water begins to overflow its banks and cause impacts to nearby areas.
How do I check flooding near me?
Use the interactive map above or search for your city, state, or river to view local flood conditions.