USGS Washington Water Science Center USGS Home Page

This is your direct link to all kinds of water resource information. Here you'll find information on Washington's rivers and streams. You'll also find information about ground water, water quality, and many other topics. The USGS operates the most extensive satellite network of stream-gaging stations in the state, many of which form the backbone of flood-warning systems.

Regional Water Science Issues

Water
Availability

Aquatic
Ecosystems
Item 5

Environment
& Human
Health

Climate Change Icon

Climate and
Land Use Change
Natural Hazards Icon

Natural
Hazards

Latest River Conditions:
Statewide Streamflow Table
Real-Time Map - Google Maps

Annual Data Reports:
Text Search / Map Search

Water Science in the News

Low-Flying Airplane Mapping Spokane Area
For about one month, an airplane operated under contract to the U.S. Geological Survey will be making low-level flights over a 1000-square-mile area centered over Spokane and including parts of eastern Washington and western Idaho....(more)

USGS to Discontinue Streamgages Due to Sequestration--UPDATE, April 30, 2013:
Threatened USGS gages in Washington were rescued with equipment upgrade and flood-hardening funds for FY 2013. Planned upgrades will be delayed or cancelled...This is a short-term solution to rescue streamgages in FY13 only...(more)

Using the Science of Mount Rainier’s Rivers to Reduce Flood Risk
Floodplain managers downstream of Mount Rainier are using information in a report recently published by the U.S. Geological Survey to manage flood risks in their communities.

Measuring the Flow: The Importance of Streamgages
Reliable streamflow information is needed for flood warnings, drinking water management, water quality standards, and many other purposes. Streamgages, like bridges and dams, are a vital part of the Nation’s water infrastructure.

USGS Podcast: Streamgages