VERMILION RIVER

Last Updated: December 14, 2025

Get the latest River Levels, Streamflow, and Hydrology for in River flows across 7 streamgages of the Vermilion River


Summary

Total streamflow across the Vermilion River was last observed at 2,764 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 5,483 acre-ft of water today; about 129% of normal. River levels are high. Average streamflow for this time of year is 2,136 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2024-01-20 when daily discharge volume was observed at 52,199 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Vermilion River Near Vermilion Oh reporting a streamflow rate of 1,220 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Vermilion River At Surrey St. At Lafayette with a gauge stage of 5.18 ft. This river is monitored from 7 different streamgauging stations along the Vermilion River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 1,183 ft, the Vermilion River Nr Crane Lake.

River Details

Last Updated 2025-12-14
Discharge Volume 5,483 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 2,764.4 cfs
+1713.1 cfs (+162.95%)
Percent of Normal 129.44%
Maximum 52,199.0 cfs
2024-01-20
Seasonal Avg cfs
       
River Streamflow Levels
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Vermilion River Nr Crane Lake
USGS 05129115
97 cfs 4.48 ft -1.91
Vermilion River At Pontiac
USGS 05554500
4 cfs 2.47 ft -35.54
Vermilion River Near Vermilion Oh
USGS 04199500
1220 cfs 4.31 ft 457.08
Vermilion River Near Leonore
USGS 05555300
17 cfs 3.3 ft 3.59
Vermilion River Near Danville
USGS 03339000
34 cfs 2.02 ft -34.35
Vermilion River At Surrey St. At Lafayette
USGS 07386880
582 cfs 5.18 ft -20.6
Vermilion River At Perry
USGS 07386980
865 cfs 4.9 ft 862.18
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile

The river has a significant history, having been used by Native American tribes for trade and transportation. Its hydrology is characterized by a combination of flowing water and floodplain wetlands, which support a diverse ecosystem. The river is home to several dams and reservoirs, including Lake Vermilion, which was constructed in the 1970s for flood control and recreation. The river system supports agricultural activity, including corn and soybean farming, and provides recreational opportunities such as boating, fishing, and hiking. The Vermilion River is a vital resource for the region, providing economic and ecological benefits.