Summary
Total streamflow across the
South Skunk River
was last observed at
809
cfs, and is expected to yield approximately
1,604
acre-ft of water today; about 176%
of normal.
River levels are high.
Average streamflow for this time of year is
460 cfs,
with recent peaks last observed
on
2025-07-25 when daily discharge volume was observed at
18,900 cfs.
Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
reporting a streamflow rate of 485 cfs.
However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the
South Skunk River Below Squaw Creek Near Ames
with a gauge stage of 10.25 ft.
This river is monitored from 4 different streamgauging stations along the South Skunk River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 928 ft, the
South Skunk River Near Ames.
River Details
| Last Updated | 2025-12-03 |
| Discharge Volume | 1,604 ACRE-FT |
| Streamflow |
808.7 cfs
+112.0 cfs (+16.08%) |
| Percent of Normal | 175.81% |
| Maximum |
18,900.0 cfs
2025-07-25 |
| Seasonal Avg | cfs |
River Streamflow Levels
| Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
South Skunk River Near Ames
USGS 05470000 |
92 cfs | 3.19 ft | 0 | |||||
|
South Skunk River Below Squaw Creek Near Ames
USGS 05471000 |
130 cfs | 10.25 ft | -8.45 | |||||
|
South Skunk River At Colfax
USGS 05471050 |
211 cfs | 8.09 ft | 17.22 | |||||
|
South Skunk River Near Oskaloosa
USGS 05471500 |
485 cfs | 8.66 ft | 28.99 |
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile
It runs for 137 miles and has a drainage area of 1,629 square miles. The river has a long history of flooding, with the most significant flood occurring in 2008. The hydrology of the river is affected by various factors, including land use changes, development, and climate change.
There are several reservoirs and dams along the South Skunk River, including the Saylorville Dam and the Red Rock Dam. These dam systems help to manage flooding and provide hydroelectric power. The river is also an important source of water for agricultural irrigation in the region.
Recreationally, the South Skunk River is popular for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The river is home to several species of fish, including catfish, bass, and walleye. The river also provides important habitat for wildlife, including several endangered species.