Osage River

Total streamflow across the Osage River was last observed at 68,100 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 135,075 acre-ft of water today; about 260% of normal. River levels are high. Average streamflow for this time of year is 26,239 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2015-12-30 when daily discharge volume was observed at 196,100 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Osage River Below St. Thomas reporting a streamflow rate of 35,600 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Osage River Near Bagnell with a gauge stage of 15.37 ft. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Osage River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 558 ft, the Osage River Near Bagnell.

It has a rich history, serving as an important trade route for Native Americans, French explorers, and early American settlers. Today, the river is heavily managed for flood control, with several dams and reservoirs, including the Truman Dam and Lake of the Ozarks. These reservoirs provide hydroelectric power, recreation opportunities like fishing and boating, and are important for agricultural irrigation. The river's hydrology is heavily influenced by precipitation, with flooding being a common occurrence. Despite this, the Osage River remains an important natural resource for the communities and industries that rely on it.