2026-03-12T21:00:00-06:00
The National Weather Service in Denver has issued a Fire Weather Watch for wind and low relative humidity, which is in effect from Friday morning through Friday evening. * AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zones 238, 239, 240, 241, 242, 243, 244, 245, 246, 247, 248 and 249. * TIMING...For the Red Flag Warning, from 11 AM to 9 PM MDT Thursday. For the Fire Weather Watch, from Friday morning through Friday evening. * WINDS...On Thursday, west winds 30 to 40 mph with gusts 45 to 70 mph for the northern plains and locations west of I-25, and west winds 15 to 25 mph with gusts up to 45 mph elsewhere. On Friday, west winds 20 to 25 mph with gusts 30 to 50 mph, strongest near the Cheyenne Ridge. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...12 to 18 percent, driest roughly along and south of I-70 and around the Denver metro. * IMPACTS...Conditions will be favorable for rapid fire spread. Avoid outdoor burning and any activity that may produce a spark and start a wildfire.
Summary
Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Lower River Rouge At Dearborn reporting a streamflow rate of 145 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Lower River Rouge At Inkster with a gauge stage of 5.74 ft. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Lower River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 597 ft, the Lower River Rouge At Inkster.
15-Day Weather Outlook
River Streamflow Levels
| Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Lower River Rouge At Inkster
USGS 04168000 |
132 cfs | 5.74 ft | ||||||
|
Lower River Rouge At Dearborn
USGS 04168400 |
145 cfs | 4.09 ft | -25.64 |
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile
It is approximately 954 miles long and has a rich history, serving as a major trade route for Native American tribes and European explorers. The Lower River is also the site of several important reservoirs and dams, including the Old River Control Structure and the Bonnet Carre Spillway. These structures play a critical role in managing the flow of the river and preventing floods. The Lower River is an important source of water for agricultural irrigation, and it also supports a range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, and bird watching. The river is home to a diverse array of fish species, including catfish, bass, and crappie, making it a popular destination for anglers.