South Platte River at Henderson
Colorado — Water Level & Flood Stage
Located in Adams County, Colorado on the South Platte River. Live water level data from USGS, updated every 15 minutes.
Current Water Level
Gage Height
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Streamflow
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Last Reading
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This is an NWS forecast point (LID: HNDC2). Live data may be limited. View on NWS AHPS →
Flood Stages
Major Flood
15 ft
23,617 cfs
Moderate Flood
13 ft
16,100 cfs
Minor Flood
11 ft
11,600 cfs
Action Stage
10 ft
9,620 cfs
Flood stages defined by the National Weather Service. Gage height data from USGS Water Resources.
What Floods at Each Level
17.7 ft
This is close to the maximum flood since records began in the 1920s. This level represents a flood that has a 1-percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. For more information click <a href="inundation/faq_google.php">here</a>.
15.5 ft
Widespread, major flooding occurs with numerous roads and streets inundated and impassable. The river levels rise to the base of bridges resulting in flooding of bridges or bridge approaches.
15.2 ft
This level represents a flood that has a 2-percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. For more information click <a href="inundation/faq_google.php">here</a>.
15 ft
There is major flooding along the river including damage in Henderson and Brighton.
13 ft
There is significant damage to agricultural lands along the river.
11.1 ft
The river overflows its banks causing flooding downstream of Brighton and begins to affect agricultural lands. This level represents a flood that has a 10-percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. for more information click <a href="inundation/faq_google.php">here</a>.
10 ft
There is minor overbank flow into low lying areas along the river.
9.5 ft
Water overtops bike paths along the South Platte River.
Impact statements from the National Weather Service, describing what typically happens at each water level.
7-Day Water Level Chart
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Historic Crests
| Date | Stage | Flow |
|---|---|---|
| May 5, 1973 | 17.67 ft | 33,000 cfs |
| May 5, 1973 | 17.67 ft | 33,000 cfs |
| Jun 16, 1965 | 16.93 ft | 29,600 cfs |
| Jun 16, 1965 | 16.93 ft | 29,600 cfs |
| May 7, 1969 | 14.91 ft | 22,100 cfs |
About This Gauge
NWS LID
HNDC2
River
South Platte River
County
Adams, CO
Coordinates
39.9223°N, 104.8688°W
Get Flood Alerts for South Platte River
StormCast monitors this gauge and sends a push notification to your phone when the water level crosses into a new flood category — even at 3 AM.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current water level of South Platte River at Henderson?
The South Platte River at Henderson gauge is maintained by USGS and reports water levels every 15 minutes. Visit this page to see the latest reading updated live, or download StormCast to get push alerts when levels rise.
What is flood stage for South Platte River at Henderson?
The NWS-defined flood stage for South Platte River at Henderson is 11 feet. Action stage begins at 10 feet. Moderate flooding starts at 13 feet, and major flooding at 15 feet.
How do I get alerts when South Platte River rises?
Download StormCast free on Google Play, go to River Gauges, and add South Platte River at Henderson to your watchlist. StormCast will send a push notification to your phone whenever the water level crosses into a new NWS flood category — even when your screen is off.
Where is the South Platte River at Henderson gauge located?
The gauge is located in Adams County, Colorado at coordinates 39.9223°N, 104.8688°W. Data is provided by the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Weather Service.
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Source & Notes
Data provided by: CO Division of Water Resources
- Gauge reading affected by reservoir operations.
- Stage may be affected by ice during winter months.