Flash Floods: How Quickly Can Rivers Rise?
Flash floods are among the most dangerous natural hazards in the US. Here's how quickly rivers can rise and what USGS data shows us.
Apr 19, 2026
Articles
The 10 Longest Rivers in the US: Flow and Hydrology
From the Missouri to the Columbia, here are the ten longest rivers in the United States and what their USGS data reveals about their hydrology.
Apr 17, 2026
Drought and Rivers: What Low Flow Means for Ecosystems
When rivers drop to "Very Low" percentile rank, it signals more than just dry conditions — it triggers a cascade of ecological stress.
Apr 13, 2026
How to Check River Levels Before a Kayak Trip
Planning a kayak or rafting trip? Here's how to use stream gauge data to check conditions before you put in.
Apr 6, 2026
Best Fishing Flows: Using Stream Gauge Data for Trout Fishing
Stream gauge data isn't just for flood managers. Here's how fly fishers and trout anglers use USGS data to find ideal conditions.
Mar 31, 2026
Flood Stage Explained: Action, Flood, Moderate, and Major
NOAA defines four flood stage thresholds for each USGS gauge. Here's what each level means and when to take action.
Mar 21, 2026
Spring Runoff: How Snowmelt Drives River Levels
Every spring, mountain snowpacks melt and rivers across the western US surge to their highest levels of the year. Here's what drives the flood pulse.
Mar 6, 2026
Percentile Rank Explained: Is the River High or Low Right Now?
Percentile rank compares today's streamflow to the historical record for the same calendar date. Here's how to use it.
Feb 19, 2026
What Is CFS? Understanding River Flow Measurement
CFS — cubic feet per second — is the standard unit of streamflow in the US. Here's what the numbers actually mean in practical terms.
Feb 4, 2026
How to Read a USGS Stream Gauge
USGS stream gauges measure two things: gage height (how high the water is) and discharge (how much water is flowing). Here's how to interpret what you see.
Jan 20, 2026