Last Updated: December 28, 2025
The Arizona streamflow report indicates an array of fluctuations in river conditions which are vital for recreational users and environmental monitoring. The Colorado River, a key watercourse for the region, shows varied streamflows with the section at Lees Ferry flowing at 8,840 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is 29% below the norm, possibly impacting activities such as rafting in the Grand Canyon. The Little Colorado River near Desert View is also below normal by 6.3%, with a flow of 213 cfs. Conversely, the Virgin River at Littlefield and above The Narrows presents higher than average flows, 40.37% and 67.88% of the normal respectively, which may interest kayakers seeking higher water levels.
Of particular concern are the conditions observed in the Verde River watershed, where the section near Scottsdale is running at 339 cfs, 28.3% above the average, which could raise concerns for nearby urban areas in the event of continued increases. The Salt River near Roosevelt is significantly low at 129 cfs, a drastic 62.92% below normal, potentially affecting water availability downstream. Explorers of whitewater trails should be aware that the Verde River below Bartlett Dam is experiencing a noticeable spike of 18.57% above the norm at 415 cfs, increasing the potential for challenging river conditions. Meanwhile, the Poston Wasteway near Poston displays an abnormal surge to 187 cfs, 122.3% above normal, hinting at possible localized flooding issues. Water enthusiasts and concerned citizens should remain attentive to these dynamic conditions, which reflect the intricate balance of Arizona's water resources and the importance of ongoing monitoring for both safety and ecological integrity.
Arizona is a state with arid to semi-arid climate conditions. Major surface flows include the Colorado and Gila Rivers, with the former having significant impacts on water supply and hydroelectricity generation. Reservoirs and dams, such as Lake Powell and Hoover Dam, play critical roles in water storage and management. The state's hydrology is primarily influenced by snowmelt from the Rocky Mountains and the monsoon season, which brings heavy rainfall to the region during the summer months. Watershed data indicates that the Salt and Verde Rivers are the primary sources of water for the Phoenix metropolitan area. Climate change is expected to exacerbate water scarcity issues in the region, with reduced snowpack and increased temperatures leading to higher evaporation rates and reduced water availability.
| River Run | Status | Streamflow (CFS) | Air Temp (F) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Christopher Creek
Class V |
TOO HIGH | 443 | 83 |
|
Christopher Creek
Class V |
TOO HIGH | 443 | 83 |
|
Christopher Creek
Class V |
TOO HIGH | 443 | 83 |
|
Grand Canyon
Class III to IV |
RUNNABLE | 9320 | 82 |
|
Hell's Gate Canyon
Class V |
TOO LOW | 14.9 | 81 |
|
Indian Gardens
Class IV- to IV+ |
TOO LOW | 30.4 | 76 |
|
Kelvin Run
Class I to II- |
73.27 | ||
|
Lower Salt
Class I |
RUNNABLE | 575 | 90 |
|
Lower Verde
Class I to II |
RUNNABLE | 127 | 88 |
|
Upper Salt Daily
Class III to IV |
67.33 | ||
|
White Bridge to Beasley Flat
Class II- to II |
65.68 |