CALIFORNIA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: February 13, 2026

The latest streamflow data for California's rivers indicates a varied hydrological landscape across the state, with significant disparities in streamflow conditions that impact recreational users, water resources managers, and ecosystems. Whitewater enthusiasts and other river users should be aware that streamflow levels in major rivers such as the Colorado River and the Truckee River are showing notable changes. The Colorado River below Parker Dam, for example, has experienced a significant decrease of 30.09 cubic feet per second (cfs) in the last 24 hours, with flow levels at 2300 cfs, which is 38.68 percent below normal, potentially affecting local water activities and wildlife. In contrast, the Little Truckee River below Boca Dam is flowing at 153 cfs, up by 1.32 cfs, indicating a 123.68 percent above-normal flow, which may be of interest for those looking for higher-volume waters.

Seasonal trends are evident, with some rivers experiencing low flow conditions, such as the Russian River near Windsor, where a substantial increase in streamflow of 612.73 cfs has brought levels up to an atypically high 1960 cfs, 142.87 percent above normal, raising concerns for potential flooding in nearby areas. The Sacramento River, a vital waterway for the state, presents a mixed picture: while the stretch above Bend Bridge near Red Bluff is flowing at a robust 13400 cfs, 81.36 percent above normal, downstream at Rio Vista, levels have dropped sharply by 88.13 cfs to 3050 cfs, a concerning 93.89 percent below normal. These fluctuations underscore the need for river users to stay informed about current conditions, as they may influence recreational opportunities and pose risks to flood-prone regions. Cities like Sacramento, Red Bluff, and communities along the Colorado River basin should remain particularly alert to these dynamic conditions.