LICKING RIVER

RIVER LEVELS
December 25, 2024
38.14, -83.61


TOTAL RIVER DISCHARGE

Total streamflow across the Licking River was last observed at 12,317 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 24,429 acre-ft of water today; about 67% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 18,484 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2020-05-20 when daily discharge volume was observed at 134,963 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Licking River At Catawba reporting a streamflow rate of 5,100 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Licking River At Blue Lick Springs with a gauge stage of 10.56 ft. This river is monitored from 5 different streamgauging stations along the Licking River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 864 ft, the Licking River Below Mason Fork Nr Salyersville.

The Licking River is a 303-mile-long river that runs through Kentucky and Ohio, USA. The river has a rich history, dating back to the pre-colonial era, when it was used as a major trade route for Native Americans. The Licking River also played a significant role in the development of the region's agriculture and industry. The river is home to several dams and reservoirs, including the William H. Harsha Lake and the Cave Run Lake, which provide drinking water, flood control, and hydroelectric power. The Licking River supports a wide range of recreational activities, including fishing, boating, and camping. Additionally, it is an important source of irrigation water for many farms in the area, and supports the growth of crops such as corn and soybeans. Despite its importance, the Licking River faces several challenges, including pollution and habitat destruction, which threaten its long-term health and vitality.

Last Updated 2024-12-25
Discharge Volume 24,429 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 12,316.5 cfs
-2198.0 cfs (-15.14%)
Percent of Normal 66.63%
Maximum 134,963.0 cfs
2020-05-20
Seasonal Avg 18,484 cfs

YEAR OVER YEAR DISCHARGE (CFS)

Streamflow Conditions
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Licking River Below Mason Fork Nr Salyersville
USGS 03248300
58 cfs 5.5 ft -10.85
Licking River Near Newark Oh
USGS 03146500
149 cfs 2.76 ft -6.88
Licking River At Blue Lick Springs
USGS 03250500
2980 cfs 10.56 ft -24.37
Licking River At Catawba
USGS 03253500
5100 cfs 9.81 ft -11.76
Licking River At Mckinneysburg
USGS 03251500
4030 cfs 10.08 ft -11.82
History of the River

The Licking River is a partly navigable, 303-mile-long (488 km) tributary of the Ohio River in northeastern Kentucky in the United States. The river and its tributaries drain much of the region of northeastern Kentucky between the watersheds of the Kentucky River to the west and the Big Sandy River to the east. The North Fork Licking River, in Pendleton County, Kentucky is one of its tributaries.

       

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