7 Rivers Around the World That Flow Backwards
Ananya Mishra | Thu, 20 Nov 2025
Some rivers across the world flow in reverse due to strong tides, storms, floods, or human engineering. These rare natural events make such rivers fascinating to explore. From the Amazon and Mississippi to Tonlé Sap and the Chicago River, each one has unique conditions that temporarily or permanently push water backward, creating an unusual geographical wonder.
Chicago River, USA
( Image credit : Pexels )
Rivers usually flow from higher level to lower level. But due to natural factors like strong tides, floods or storms, it is possible for rivers to flow in the opposite direction as well. This natural phenomenon attracts tourists to visit them and explore their natural and unusual beauty.
The Amazon River is known as the largest river in the world and it flows in the opposite direction. The reason for this is the strong tides of the Atlantic ocean that push the river backwards.
![Mississippi River, USA]()
Because of natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricane Katrina, the Mississippi River has flowed backwards many times.
Due to heavy tides, the Orinoco River temporarily flows backwards connecting it to the Amazon River.
To protect the cleanliness of the Chicago River from getting contaminated by sewage, engineers reversed its natural flow.
The Hudson river changes its direction from time to time due to the ocean tides. It is a tidal river and the ocean pushes its direction both backward and forward.
Every monsoon season, this river changes its direction. Heavy rains cause floods in this area with the Mekong River, which then pushes the river into the opposite direction.
![Humber River, Canada]()
With sudden storm surging and extremely high water levels at Lake Ontario, the Humber River can flow in reverse pushing the water back into the river.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Amazon River, South America
Mississippi River, USA
Mississippi River, USA
( Image credit : Pexels )
Because of natural disasters like earthquakes and hurricane Katrina, the Mississippi River has flowed backwards many times.
Orinoco River, Venezuela
Chicago River, USA
Hudson River, USA
Tonlé Sap River, Cambodia
Humber River, Canada
Humber River, Canada
( Image credit : Pexels )
With sudden storm surging and extremely high water levels at Lake Ontario, the Humber River can flow in reverse pushing the water back into the river.
Unlock insightful tips and inspiration on personal growth, productivity, and well-being. Stay motivated and updated with the latest at My Life XP.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Are backward-flowing rivers dangerous?
They can be, especially when caused by floods, hurricanes or storm surges, as these events can impact nearby communities. - Why does the Amazon River sometimes reverse its flow?
The Amazon River can flow backwards because of powerful Atlantic Ocean tides that push water upstream. - Do tidal rivers commonly change direction?
Yes, tidal rivers like the Hudson River frequently shift directions depending on ocean tides.
