South Platte River at Merino

1. 15.50 ftNear record flooding occurs.
2. 15.00 ftThere is extensive major flooding in southwest Logan County. Businesses and residences flood near the river in eastern Sterling.
3. 14.50 ftThere is extensive flooding of agricultural land. Roads and structures flood along the river.
4. 13.00 ftThere is moderate flooding of agricultural land near the river.
5. 11.50 ftAgricultural land floods along the river and near Sterling.
6. 9.50 ftThe river is out of its banks and into lowlands and meadows.
7. 9.00 ftWater moves over lower banks into riparian lowlands. Riverside trails and parking areas near Sterling become affected by rising water.

Chance of flooding, September to November

The three-month chances are the River Forecast Centers’ long-range flood outlook, issued September 23, 2026.

Most recent crests

• May 11, 2025: 4.12 ft
• May 1, 2024: 6.58 ft
• August 30, 2023: 3.65 ft

• UpstreamSouth Platte River at Balzac
• DownstreamSouth Platte River at Crook
• South Platte River at Atwood
• South Platte River at Fort Morgan
• South Platte River at Weldona
• Lodgepole Creek
• Lodgepole Creek
• South Platte River at Kersey

Forecasts by the Missouri Basin River Forecast Center. Forecasts are issued as needed during times of high water, but are not routinely available. Stage may be affected by ice during winter months.

Stage, flood stages, impacts and crest history from NOAA’s National Water Prediction Service.