FLOODS DAMPEN DROUGHT

After many years of low streamflow in Kansas, floods have returned.  Heavy rains during the weekend resulted in river stages exceeding National Weather Service (NWS) flood stage at more than 30 USGS streamgages on May 7. Rainfall totals for May 5 through 7 ranged from about 3.5 inches at Mill Creek near Paxico to more than 9 inches at Mulberry Creek near Salina. No record flows have been recorded so far,  however, more rain is forecast for the eastern part of the state throughout the week. 

The U.S. Geological Survey monitors flood conditions through an extensive real-time network of 170 streamgages throughout the State. During significant flood events, USGS personnel monitor real-time equipment located at USGS streamgages, measure and document peak river stages and flows, and provide onsite maintenance to ensure continuity of real-time data transmissions, This information is used by the National Weather Service for flood forecasting, as well as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for reservoir operations.

A summary of flood and high flow conditions for affected streamgages and other flood information in Kansas is available on WaterWatch at:

http://water.usgs.gov/cgi-bin/wwdp?region_cd=ks

A summary of flood and high flow conditions for affected streamgages and other flood information for the United States is available on WaterWatch at:

http://water.usgs.gov/cgi-bin/wwdp

Real-time information for all Kansas streamgages is displayed on the Internet at:

http://waterdata.usgs.gov/ks/nwis/rt

To view other USGS water information in Kansas, visit:

http://ks.water.usgs.gov

The USGS serves the nation by providing reliable scientific information to:  describe and understand the Earth; minimize loss of life and property from natural disasters; manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources; and enhance and protect our quality of life.

***USGS***