IDAHO FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 24, 2025

Idaho's river systems are exhibiting a variety of streamflow trends, with several rivers registering flows outside their usual seasonal patterns. Notably, the Kootenai River at Leonia is flowing at a significantly higher volume than normal, with a current streamflow of 27,600 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is 29.5% above the average, potentially affecting communities downstream like Bonners Ferry. In contrast, rivers such as the Snake River near Irwin are experiencing lower than normal flows, with the streamflow at only 912 cfs, 31.95% below the norm, indicating potential flow drought conditions that could impact water availability.

For water enthusiasts, especially whitewater aficionados, the higher streamflows on rivers like the Kootenai and the North Fork Coeur d'Alene River, currently at 4,640 cfs and 236.29% of normal, translate to more vigorous and challenging conditions. Conversely, the decreased flows in rivers such as the South Fork Payette River at Lowman, at only 874 cfs, may affect the quality of recreational activities. Abnormally large increases such as those observed in the North Fork Clearwater River, which has decreased by 16.88% in the last 24 hours to 2,660 cfs, could be indicative of quick changes in conditions, possibly linked to weather patterns or water management practices. These unusual streamflows serve as a reminder of the dynamic nature of Idaho's river ecosystems and the need for river users to stay informed for safety and optimal enjoyment of the region's aquatic resources.

       



Idaho's flow conditions are influenced by its unique hydrology and climate characteristics. The state has numerous major surface flows, including the Snake River, Salmon River, and Clearwater River, all of which are important for irrigation, hydroelectric power, and recreation. Idaho also has several large reservoirs and dams, such as the Boise River Reservoir and Lucky Peak Dam, which play a crucial role in regulating water flow and supply. The state's watersheds and snowpack levels are also significant indicators of hydrologic conditions, with winter snowpack providing a critical source of water for the state's rivers and streams during the summer months. Overall, Idaho's flow conditions are shaped by a complex interplay of natural and human factors, making it an important area of study for hydrologists and water resource managers.


       

Winter Storm Warnings

December 24 2025

Residents of Idaho, please exercise caution as severe weather conditions are expected to impact the state. A Wind Advisory is in effect for south central and southwest Idaho until 4 PM MST today, with south winds 25 to 35 mph and gusts up to 55 mph that may cause tree damage and power outages. Additionally, a Winter Storm Warning has been issued for the Big Lost Highlands/Copper Basin and Sun Valley Region, with heavy snowfall of up to 3 feet on higher peaks and difficult travel conditions, including over Galena Summit, until 5 PM MST Thursday. Areas like Ketchum and Sun Valley are expected to receive lesser accumulations. The Frank Church Wilderness, Lost River Range, and Sawtooth/Stanley Basin are also under a Winter Weather Advisory, with substantial snow accumulations and similar travel concerns. Furthermore, the Raft River Region and Southern Hills/Albion Mountains are facing gusty winds up to 50 MPH that could pose challenges for high profile vehicles. Stay safe and stay informed on the latest weather updates.


Rafting & Kayaking

River Run Status Streamflow (CFS) Air Temp (F)
32nd Street to Smelter
Class III to IV-
34.11
Black Canyon - Highway 34 to Grace Powerhouse
Class IV to V
TOO HIGH 1630 59
Blackfoot Wolverine Canyon Run
Class IV+ to V
RUNNABLE 144 56
Boundary Creek to Cache Bar
Class III to IV+
RUNNABLE 3670 48
Boundary Creek to Cache Bar
Class III to IV+
RUNNABLE 3670 48
Boundary Creek to Cache Bar
Class III to IV+
RUNNABLE 3670 48
Boundary Creek to Cache Bar
Class III to IV+
RUNNABLE 3670 48
Boundary Creek to Cache Bar
Class III to IV+
RUNNABLE 3670 48
Box Canyon
Class II
RUNNABLE 267 50
Bruneau (Indian Hot Springs to Bruneau)
Class II+ to IV
RUNNABLE 1270 53
Cabarton
Class II to III
TOO LOW 44.6 35
Challis Bridge to Deer Gulch
Class II
RUNNABLE 1070 55
Coffee Pot
Class III
RUNNABLE 390 48
Colston to the Town of Salmon
Class II to II+
TOO HIGH 1070 55
Corn Creek to Vinegar Creek/Carey Creek (Main Salmon)
Class III to IV
RUNNABLE 1560 54
Corn Creek to Vinegar Creek/Carey Creek (Main Salmon)
Class III to IV
RUNNABLE 1560 54
Corn Creek to Vinegar Creek/Carey Creek (Main Salmon)
Class III to IV
RUNNABLE 1560 54
East Fork to Challis Bridge
Class II
RUNNABLE 1070 55
Fish Creek to Split Creek
Class III to IV
RUNNABLE 2490 58
Float Creek to Middle Fork of the Salmon
Class IV
35.94
Hammer Creek to Heller Bar (Lower Salmon)
Class III- to IV
TOO LOW 527 58
Headwaters (Gold Creek to Stanley)
Class III- to III+
TOO HIGH 1070 55
Hells Canyon (Hells Canyon Dam to Pittsburg Landing)
Class III to IV
RUNNABLE 9860 51
Kelly's Whitewater Park
Class III
216 45
Murphy to Bruneau
Class III- to V
TOO LOW 20 57
Murphy to Bruneau
Class III- to V
TOO LOW 20 57
Murphy to Bruneau
Class III- to V
TOO LOW 20 57
Murtaugh Canyon
Class IV
TOO LOW 57
Pahsimeroi to Royal Gorge
Class II- to III-
TOO HIGH 1070 55
Palisade Dam to Lorenzo (South Fork)
Class II
RUNNABLE 3090 45
Paradise to Selway Falls
Class IV- to V
42.37
Piece of Cake Run (Sunbeam to Torreys)
Class III to IV
35.55
Pittsburg Landing to Heller Bar
Class II to III
RUNNABLE 9860 51
Salmon to North Fork
Class II
TOO HIGH 1070 55
Secesh to Main (The Canyon)
Class III to V
418 49
Split Creek to Lowell
Class II+ to III+
RUNNABLE 2490 58
Sunbeam Run (Stanley to Sunbeam Dam)
Class III- to III+
TOO HIGH 1070 55
Torreys to East Fork
Class II
RUNNABLE 1070 55
White Pine (Indian Grave Creek) to Wilderness Gateway Bridge
Class IV- to IV+
RUNNABLE 2490 58
White Sands to White Pine (Indian Grave Creek)
Class II to III
42.12
       
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