Big Lost River at Howell Ranch
Idaho — Water Level & Flood Stage
Located in Custer County, Idaho on the Big Lost River. Live water level data from USGS gauge 13120500, updated every 15 minutes.
Current Water Level
Gage Height
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Streamflow
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Last Reading
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Flood Stages
Minor Flood
4.05 ft
2,254 cfs
Action Stage
3.51 ft
1,608 cfs
Flood stages defined by the National Weather Service. Gage height data from USGS Water Resources.
What Floods at Each Level
4.05 ft
Widespread lowland flooding from Howell Ranch downriver to the top of Mackay Reservoir. Fish Hatchery Road near Donahue Ranch may have water flowing over it. Canals and headgates may have problems.
3.51 ft
Near bankfull from Howell Ranch downriver to the top of Mackay Reservoir. Some lowland flooding of fields possible.
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 24, 1967 | 6.02 ft | 4,420 cfs |
| May 24, 1967 | 6.02 ft | 4,420 cfs |
| Jun 25, 1954 | 6 ft | 3,960 cfs |
| Jun 25, 1954 | 6 ft | 3,960 cfs |
| Jun 11, 1921 | 5.94 ft | 3,500 cfs |
About This Gauge
USGS Site
NWS LID
HWRI1
River
Big Lost River
County
Custer, ID
Coordinates
43.9984°N, 114.0210°W
Get Flood Alerts for Big Lost 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 Big Lost River at Howell Ranch?
The Big Lost River at Howell Ranch gauge is maintained by USGS (site 13120500) 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 Big Lost River at Howell Ranch?
The NWS-defined flood stage for Big Lost River at Howell Ranch is 4.05 feet. Action stage begins at 3.51 feet. Moderate flooding starts at N/A feet, and major flooding at N/A feet.
How do I get alerts when Big Lost River rises?
Download StormCast free on Google Play, go to River Gauges, and add Big Lost River at Howell Ranch 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 Big Lost River at Howell Ranch gauge located?
The gauge is located in Custer County, Idaho at coordinates 43.9984°N, 114.0210°W. USGS site number: 13120500. Data is provided by the U.S. Geological Survey and the National Weather Service.
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Source & Notes
Data provided by: US Geological Survey, Observations courtesy of U.S. Geological Survey
- Stage may be affected by ice during winter months.