Upper Iowa River

Streamflow Hydrology Weather


Upper Iowa River Levels

October 9 2024

1,021 ACRE-FT

Discharge Volume Today
-3.0 cfs (-0.58%) since yesterday
33.9% of normal Very Low

Total streamflow across the Upper Iowa River was last observed at 515 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 1,021 acre-ft of water today; about 34% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 1,519 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2013-06-24 when daily discharge volume was observed at 34,000 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Upper Iowa River Near Dorchester reporting a streamflow rate of 234 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Upper Iowa River, with a gauge stage of 6.83 ft at this location. This river is monitored from 3 different streamgauging stations along the Upper Iowa River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 970 ft, the Upper Iowa River At Bluffton.

Last Updated 2024-10-09
Streamflow 515.0 cfs
Percent of Normal 33.9%
Maximum 34,000.0 cfs
2013-06-24

About the upper iowa river


The Upper Iowa River is a 156-mile-long tributary of the Mississippi River that flows through the northeast region of Iowa. The river originates in the highlands of Minnesota and flows through a series of rapids, pools, and limestone bluffs before entering the Mississippi. The river has a significant history, with early settlers using it for transportation and powering mills. Today, the river is mainly used for recreational purposes such as fishing, canoeing, and camping. There are several dams and reservoirs along the river, including the Lake Hendricks Dam and the Upper Iowa Dam, which provide hydroelectric power and serve as popular recreational areas. The agricultural industry also benefits from the river, with local farmers using the river for irrigation and livestock watering.

Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Upper Iowa River At Bluffton
USGS 05387440
137 cfs 3.1 ft 0
Upper Iowa River At Decorah
USGS 05387500
144 cfs 1.57 ft -2.04
Upper Iowa River Near Dorchester
USGS 05388250
234 cfs 6.83 ft 0

Peak Annual Discharge

Upper Iowa River Maximum Total Discharge

Seasonal Comparison

Upper Iowa River Year Over Year Discharge


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