South Platte River at Merino
Colorado — Water Level & Flood Stage
Located in Logan 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: MRIC2). Live data may be limited. View on NWS AHPS →
Flood Stages
Major Flood
14.5 ft
Moderate Flood
13 ft
Minor Flood
11.5 ft
Action Stage
9 ft
Flood stages defined by the National Weather Service. Gage height data from USGS Water Resources.
What Floods at Each Level
15.5 ft
Near record flooding occurs.
15 ft
There is extensive major flooding in southwest Logan County. Businesses and residences flood near the river in eastern Sterling.
14.5 ft
There is extensive flooding of agricultural land. Roads and structures flood along the river.
13 ft
There is moderate flooding of agricultural land near the river.
11.5 ft
Agricultural land floods along the river and near Sterling.
9.5 ft
The river is out of its banks and into lowlands and meadows.
9 ft
Water moves over lower banks into riparian lowlands. Riverside trails and parking areas near Sterling become affected by rising water.
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 |
|---|---|---|
| Apr 30, 2024 | 6.58 ft | 2,690 cfs |
| Apr 30, 2024 | 6.58 ft | 2,690 cfs |
| May 10, 2025 | 4.12 ft | 583 cfs |
| May 10, 2025 | 4.12 ft | 583 cfs |
| Aug 29, 2023 | 3.65 ft | 328 cfs |
About This Gauge
NWS LID
MRIC2
River
South Platte River
County
Logan, CO
Coordinates
40.4739°N, 103.3457°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 Merino?
The South Platte River at Merino 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 Merino?
The NWS-defined flood stage for South Platte River at Merino is 11.5 feet. Action stage begins at 9 feet. Moderate flooding starts at 13 feet, and major flooding at 14.5 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 Merino 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 Merino gauge located?
The gauge is located in Logan County, Colorado at coordinates 40.4739°N, 103.3457°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
- Stage may be affected by ice during winter months.