Nibi Metrics
Real-time water levels, forecasts, and alerts for lakes and rivers across Canada and the US. Built on official government data.
Nibi Metrics turns raw gauge readings from official hydrometric networks into something a person standing on a dock can actually use: is the water high or low for today, which way is it moving, and how unusual is this? This page explains where every number on the platform comes from and what we do to it along the way.
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Santa Cruz River near Nogales, AZ. Water Level
Live river level, flow, historical records and forecast for Santa Cruz River near Nogales, AZ. in AZ, United States, built from official government gauge data.
- Location AZ, United States
- Watershed upper santa cruz
- Primary gauge 09480500 (USGS)
About Santa Cruz River near Nogales, AZ.
Santa Cruz River - A dynamic waterway in the Arid Southwest.
The Santa Cruz River near Nogales, AZ, is a vital watercourse in the Upper Santa Cruz watershed. This river experiences a dramatic seasonal rhythm, shaped by the unique hydrology of the Arid Southwest. Summer monsoon thunderstorms can lead to sudden flash floods, while winter storms and snowmelt from higher elevations contribute to the river’s flow during colder months. Such fluctuations create a challenging yet intriguing environment for those who rely on this river for various uses, including agriculture and recreation.
The watershed context
The Santa Cruz River plays an essential role in the Upper Santa Cruz watershed, draining roughly 533 square miles. This expansive catchment collects water from various sources, but much of the river can run dry between significant weather events. The irregular flow patterns present challenges and opportunities for cottagers, anglers, and farmers alike. Surrounding water bodies, such as Nogales Wash and nearby Rillito Creek, contribute to the dynamic system experienced in this region. Hydrologically, the Santa Cruz River fluctuates seasonally, with an increased likelihood of flow from summer thunderstorms and winter precipitation events.
Why the data matters here
Understanding the water levels and flow patterns of the Santa Cruz River is crucial. Monitoring data from the United States Geological Survey (USGS) allows users to gauge current conditions. Today's reading reflects conditions against the median for this calendar day over 50 years. This comparison provides a clearer context than raw elevation, as it accounts for historical variability. It helps stakeholders, from local farmers to recreational users, to better anticipate conditions and make informed decisions as they interact with this vital waterway.
How this page is built
Readings come from official government gauges and are rolled into daily records: the daily mean, high and low for every day on record. Each calendar day gets its own baseline from the full history, so the level you see is compared against what this specific date usually looks like rather than an annual average.
How Nibi Metrics works · Water stories
