Des Moines River at Emmetsburg, IA

Steady over 24 hours (−6% discharge). Rising or falling means a change of more than 10% in discharge (or 0.2 ft of gauge height) over 24 hours; our rule of thumb, not a USGS class.

• Below NWS action stage. The National Weather Service reports this gauge below its action stage. That is not a statement that wading is safe.

  Flood categories: action stage, minor, moderate and major flooding (National Weather Service)

• Turn Around Don't Drown. “A mere 6 inches of fast-moving flood water can knock over an adult.” No flow number makes a crossing safe; if in doubt, stay out.

  Turn Around Don't Drown (National Weather Service)

Guidance from the readings above and the published thresholds named with each line; not a fishing forecast, a safety guarantee or a statement about access. Local rules and closures come first.

USGS gauge page USGS statistics NWS gauge EMTI4

Checked Nov 5, 9:52 PM CST; readings refresh at most every 15 minutes and statistics daily. Provisional USGS data can be revised. Conditions change: re-check before you go. This is general guidance, not a fishing forecast, a safety guarantee or a statement about access.