IDAHO FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

Streamflow conditions across Idaho exhibit a mix of below-normal and above-normal rates, affecting various river systems and watersheds that are critical for recreational activities, water supply, and wildlife habitats. Notably, the Kootenai River at Leonia reports an elevated streamflow at 25,500 cfs, 117.56% of the normal rate, suggesting a potential for high-water events which could impact the nearby communities and outdoor enthusiasts frequenting this area. Contrastingly, the Snake River near Lorenzo marks a significant low at 878 cfs, only 62.78% of the expected flow, indicating a state of flow drought possibly affecting the agricultural demands and fishing activities. The South Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River, a popular whitewater destination, flows at 485 cfs, which is remarkably high at 179.73% of normal, making it an important call-out for whitewater boaters looking for robust conditions.

The Salmon River, integral to the state's river ecosystem and a beloved spot for fishing and rafting, is flowing at 1210 cfs near Salmon City, which is slightly above the norm at 107.28%. Meanwhile, the Payette River, another key watershed, especially for whitewater rafting, shows mixed conditions with the North Fork near Banks flowing at a reduced rate of 447 cfs, just 25.26% of normal. In contrast, the main Payette River near Payette flows at 2790 cfs, which is 77.86% of its normal rate, still suitable for most water-related activities. These variations in streamflow highlight the importance of monitoring stream conditions for safety and planning purposes for all water enthusiasts, whether they are engaged in angling, boating, or other river activities, and underscores the dynamic nature of Idaho's river systems.

       



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

January 1 2026

Residents of Idaho, particularly those in the Bear River Range, including those traveling over ID 36 through Emigration Summit, should brace for significant snowfall with accumulations of 5 to 10 inches and potentially up to 16 inches above pass level, as per the Winter Weather Advisory effective until January 2, 11:00 AM MST. Expect slick and hazardous road conditions that could severely impact travel. Additionally, areas in North and North Central Idaho are under an Air Stagnation Advisory due to trapped pollutants and deteriorating air quality, in effect until noon on January 1. It is crucial for individuals with respiratory concerns to take precautions and for all residents to avoid unnecessary outdoor activities in affected regions.


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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