VERMILION RIVER

Last Updated: January 2, 2026

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 96 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 191 acre-ft of water today; about 6% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 1,632 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 At Perry reporting a streamflow rate of 161 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Vermilion River, with a gauge stage of 5.22 ft at this location. 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 2026-01-02
Discharge Volume 191 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 96.4 cfs
-1027.0 cfs (-91.42%)
Percent of Normal 5.91%
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
96 cfs 4.47 ft -2.03
Vermilion River At Pontiac
USGS 05554500
36 cfs 2.91 ft -25.72
Vermilion River Near Vermilion Oh
USGS 04199500
67 cfs 2.51 ft -33.66
Vermilion River Near Leonore
USGS 05555300
34 cfs 3.49 ft -49.56
Vermilion River Near Danville
USGS 03339000
52 cfs 1.92 ft -27.32
Vermilion River At Surrey St. At Lafayette
USGS 07386880
86 cfs 4.41 ft 32.62
Vermilion River At Perry
USGS 07386980
161 cfs 5.22 ft -82.58
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.