Wyoming May Streamflows Well Below Average

Average streamflows for the month of May were well below average across most of Wyoming, according to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Statewide, streamflows during May were 47 percent of the monthly average. The average is based on long-term USGS gaging stations with 30 or more years of streamflow data. The State is currently experiencing its fifth consecutive year of hydrologic drought.

Across Wyoming, average May streamflows were lowest in the northeast part of the State. At long-term USGS gaging stations in the Tongue, Powder, and Cheyenne River Basins, May streamflows were 23 percent of the monthly average. "The average May streamflow at a gage on the Tongue River was the lowest recorded in 74 years," noted Kirk Miller, USGS hydrologist. "For that gage, this is the third consecutive year for a new record low average May streamflow."

Elsewhere in the State, May streamflows averaged for long-term USGS gaging stations ranged from 37 percent of average in the North Platte River Basin to 74 percent of average in the Wind River Basin. May streamflows were 49 percent of average in both the Bighorn and Green River Basins. New record low average monthly streamflows also were set at some long-term stations in these basins. Streamflows at some stations are influenced by upstream reservoirs or diversions.

Drought conditions and vital tools for drought managers in Wyoming are available at the click of a mouse. The USGS's Wyoming Drought Watch has been updated and features cumulative runoff graphs and other useful information for drought managers. Visit the site at: http://wy.water.usgs.gov/projects/drought/ .

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.

The URL for this page is http://wy.water.usgs.gov/news/html/060704.htm

U.S. Department of the Interior, U.S. Geological Survey
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