CALIFORNIA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

California's rivers and streams are experiencing diverse flow conditions, with several areas indicating significant variations in streamflow, which could impact river enthusiasts and communities near these water bodies. Notably, the Truckee River, a popular destination for water sports, has shown substantial changes, with the Upper Truckee River at Hwy 50 above Meyers experiencing a streamflow of 161 cubic feet per second (cfs), a -27.48 change in the last 24 hours, and standing at 288.05% of normal flow. Similarly, the Truckee River near Truckee has a current streamflow of 288 cfs, but with a decline of -50.17 from the previous day. In contrast, the San Joaquin River near Mendota is struggling with a flow of just 149 cfs, showing a -8.59 change and only 1.8% of normal, potentially signaling flow drought conditions. The Santa Ynez River near Solvang demonstrates a dramatic increase with a flow of 286 cfs, an astonishing 1987.59 cfs change from the previous day, indicating a possible flooding risk.

Areas such as the Eel River at Fort Seward, with a flow of 23700 cfs and a -41.91 change, could impact whitewater conditions and local communities, while the Smith River near Crescent City, which has a significant flow of 8750 cfs, has seen a decrease of -31.64 in the last 24 hours. Notably, the Colorado River, particularly below Parker Dam, is currently flowing at 2300 cfs, with a -30.09 change and is at -38.68% of its normal flow, suggesting variations that could affect river activities and ecosystem health. These fluctuations are critical for water enthusiasts looking for river recreation opportunities and for residents and authorities monitoring potential flooding or drought conditions in cities and watersheds throughout California.

       



California has a diverse hydrological system with major surface flows, including the Sacramento and San Joaquin River systems, which provide water to the agricultural heartland. The state has numerous reservoirs and dams, including the Oroville Dam, which is the tallest in the US. California's climate is characterized by long periods of drought, punctuated by occasional heavy rainfall events. The state's hydrology is heavily influenced by snowpack, which accumulates in the Sierra Nevada mountains during the winter and provides a critical source of water during the dry season. The state's watersheds are also important, with the Sacramento River being the largest, providing water to much of Northern California. Overall, California's water management is complex and requires careful planning to balance the competing demands of agriculture, urban areas, and the environment.


       

Winter Storm Warnings

December 24 2025

Residents of California are urged to exercise caution as the state faces an array of severe weather conditions. A special weather statement has been issued for areas including Gaviota State Park and Santa Ynez, where a strong thunderstorm capable of producing a waterspout and wind gusts up to 55 mph is moving northeast. High wind warnings and watches are in effect across Siskiyou, Modoc, and Northeast Siskiyou and Northwest Modoc Counties, with potential gusts up to 70 mph, which may down trees, cause power outages, and make travel difficult, impacting cities like Montague, Grenada, Weed, Alturas, and Canby. Coastal regions and interior areas such as Del Norte and Northern Humboldt are also on high wind watch with gusts up to 60 mph possible, threatening widespread power outages and hazardous driving conditions. Residents are advised to secure outdoor objects and prepare for potential emergency situations.


Rafting & Kayaking

River Run Status Streamflow (CFS) Air Temp (F)
Chamberlain Falls (Iowa Hill to Yankee Jim)
Class IV to V-
45.52
Chili Bar
Class III to IV
RUNNABLE 1390 65
Coloma to Greenwood - (C to G)
Class II to III-
RUNNABLE 1390 65
Generation and Giant Gaps (Tadpole to Colfax-Iowa Hill Road)
Class IV to IV+
RUNNABLE 1390 65
Gold Creek to Three Pools (Opal Creek Run)
Class IV to V-
51.55
Greenwood to Mammoth Bar
Class II to II+
RUNNABLE 1390 65
Interbay to Oxbow (End of the World)
Class IV to V
42.19
Iron Gate Dam to Happy Camp
Class II to III
RUNNABLE 2550 51
Royal Gorge (Soda Springs to Tadpole Creek)
Class V to V+
RUNNABLE 817 51
Sandy Flat Camp to Democrat Picnic Area
Class IV to IV+
54.16
Sluice Box to Green Riffle
Class III- to IV
RUNNABLE 3690 48
Sunrise Avenue to Watt Avenue
Class II- to II
TOO HIGH 1020 63
Tahoe City to River Ranch
Class I
323 46
The Gorge
Class III to III+
48.74
Tunnel Run (Ralston Powerhouse to Greenwood)
Class IV- to IV
RUNNABLE 1390 65
Yankee Jim Road to Ponderosa Way (Shirttail)
Class II to III
RUNNABLE 1390 65
       
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