How USGS Gages Are Used in Flood Forecasting

Fact Sheet 2022-3076
Prepared in cooperation with National Weather Service
By:

Links

Abstract

The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) operates an extensive nationwide network of stream, rain, and groundwater gages. These instruments are used to monitor how much water there is across the Nation at any given moment. Stream data are collected at streamgages every 15 minutes, transmitted to USGS servers, and updated online in real time. To improve awareness of current water conditions and possible flooding, stream data are combined with rain data collected at nearby USGS rain gages. The National Weather Service uses the USGS stream and rain data to forecast when flooding might occur and issue flood warnings.

Suggested Citation

Sobieszczyk, S., 2022, How USGS gages are used in flood forecasting: U.S. Geological Survey Fact Sheet 2022–3076, 2 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/fs20223076. [In English and Spanish.]

ISSN: 2327-6932 (online)

Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title How USGS gages are used in flood forecasting
Series title Fact Sheet
Series number 2022-3076
DOI 10.3133/fs20223076
Year Published 2022
Language English and Spanish
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey
Publisher location Reston, VA
Contributing office(s) New Mexico Water Science Center
Description 2 p.
Online Only (Y/N) Y
Google Analytic Metrics Metrics page
Additional publication details