In response to the atmospheric river moving through the region this week, hydrologic technicians across Oregon measured high-flows and made sure streamflow gages were functioning. These efforts are critical for accurate streamflow monitoring and flood response.  

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Our priorities during these extreme wet weather events: 

Keep Streamflow Gages Operational

• USGS ensures streamflow gages are functioning and accurately reporting river stage (gage height).  
• Stage data is converted into discharge (flow rate), which:  
  • Helps the National Weather Service forecast river conditions and flood stages.  
  • Guides the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in managing flood-control reservoirs (storage and release decisions).  

Collect High-Flow Data  

During floods, USGS conducts streamflow measurements to define the relationship between river stage and flow rate.  

Why this matters:  High flows are rare, so every measurement improves accuracy for future flood predictions.  

Methods  

• Direct measurements using current meters or acoustic instruments when safe.  
• Post-event surveys of high-water marks and cross-sections to compute peak flows.  

These measurements refine stage-discharge (flow) rating curves, which are essential for calculating flow at gages year-round.  

Resources:

Streamflow data is publicly available at Water Data for the Nation. 

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