Understanding River Pulse
River Pulse is Get Water Data's quick interpretation layer. It combines several pieces of gauge information so you can understand the current river situation without decoding every number first.
Current flow
River Pulse starts with the latest available USGS streamflow reading for the station.
Historical comparison
When historical day-of-year statistics are available, the current flow is compared with the historical median for that date. This helps distinguish 'high for this river today' from simply 'a large number.'
Recent direction
When enough recent observations exist, River Pulse also describes whether streamflow is rising, falling or relatively steady over roughly the previous 24 hours.
If the data does not support a reliable 24-hour comparison, the site says the trend is unavailable rather than guessing.
What River Pulse is not
River Pulse is an explanatory summary, not an official forecast, flood warning, boating recommendation or safety rating. Official flood information should still come from the National Weather Service and other local authorities.
Keep learning
These guides summarize public technical information in plain English. Measurements and official thresholds should always be checked at their original source when making safety or flood decisions.