CALIFORNIA FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 31, 2025

California's streamflows are experiencing significant variability, with certain locations reporting below-normal flows while others are witnessing surges that suggest potential flooding risks. Rivers such as the Colorado River near Parker Dam and the Sacramento River near Delta are showcasing decreased streamflows, currently at 2300 cubic feet per second (cfs) and 2220 cfs respectively, both below their typical averages for this time of year. In contrast, the Santa Paula Creek near Santa Paula is flowing at a remarkable 1320 cfs, a figure exponentially higher than the norm and indicative of possible flooding, which could impact surrounding communities and popular whitewater trails.

Focusing on specific waterways, the Truckee River and its tributaries near Truckee are showing mixed trends, with the Donner Creek at Highway 89 exhibiting a flow of 181 cfs, significantly above its normal rate, likely affecting the area's seasonal water sports activities. In Southern California, the San Joaquin River near Mendota is also running low at 149 cfs, hinting at a flow drought that could impact agricultural demands. On the other hand, the Russian River near Windsor has seen an enormous increase to 1960 cfs, more than doubling its flow, which is a clear sign for water enthusiasts to exercise caution due to high water levels. Overall, the state's diverse hydrological conditions merit close attention from residents, recreational users, and water resource managers, especially in light of the contrasting scenarios of potential drought stress in some regions and flood risks in others.

       



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 31 2025

Residents across California are urged to prepare for a series of natural disasters affecting multiple regions. Coastal areas, including Humboldt, Del Norte, Mendocino, and Southern Humboldt Counties, face Coastal Flood Advisories and Watches with potential minor to major flooding due to high astronomical tides and large surf. In Southern California, including Los Angeles, Ventura, Santa Barbara, Orange, San Bernardino, and Riverside Counties, Flood Watches are in place due to excessive rainfall that may lead to flooding, debris flows, and rockslides, particularly in burn scar areas. Dense fog also poses hazards in the Central and Southern Sacramento Valleys. Additionally, Wind Advisories have been issued for San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and the Pasadena area with potential power outages and tree damage. Citizens are advised to remain vigilant, adhere to local evacuation warnings, and prepare for potential road closures and impacts to critical infrastructure.


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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