Last Updated: January 5, 2026
Idaho's river systems show varied trends in streamflow conditions, which are essential for both ecological health and recreational activities. The Kootenai River, a major water body for the northern part of the state, has exhibited a significant streamflow at Leonia, with a current flow of 25,700 cfs, well above the normal at 172.36%, which could impact communities like Bonners Ferry and might interest whitewater enthusiasts for its high flow conditions. Conversely, the Snake River near Irwin shows a decreased streamflow at 887 cfs, 23.2% below normal, indicating potential flow drought conditions that could affect agriculture and water supply in regions like Idaho Falls. The Boise River, vital for the capital region, presents near-average flows, with the stream at Twin Springs flowing at 1,060 cfs, marking 98.72% of its normal flow, suggesting stable conditions for the time being.
Notable extremes in streamflow changes over the last 24 hours include the South Fork Coeur d'Alene River near Pinehurst with a dramatic increase of 79.63%, reaching a flow of 767 cfs, which is 232.99% above normal, likely affecting nearby communities like Kellogg. This surge could pose risks of flooding and create challenging conditions for river users. Furthermore, the Weiser River near Cambridge has seen an extraordinary 302.89% change in the last 24 hours, with a flow of 2,510 cfs, drastically surpassing the normal at an astonishing 801.97%, which might impact towns like Weiser and is a concern for flood monitoring. These fluctuations highlight the dynamic nature of Idaho's rivers, with certain areas experiencing potential flood risks while others might be facing low water levels, reminding us of the importance of monitoring streamflow for both community safety and the enjoyment of river-related activities.
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.
Residents of Idaho, please take caution as multiple winter weather advisories and storm warnings are in effect across the state. Areas such as the Big Lost Highlands/Copper Basin, Sawtooth/Stanley Basin, Sun Valley Region, and Big Hole Mountains are advised of snow accumulations ranging from 2 to 5 inches until 3 PM MST today. The Bear River Range is under a winter storm warning with expectations of heavy snowfall up to two feet above 7000 feet, potentially making travel very difficult. Furthermore, the West Central Mountains anticipate 5 to 9 inches of snow with strong winds, whereas regions including Pinehurst, Osburn, Wallace, and Bonners Ferry brace for 8 to 15 inches of snow above 3000 feet. Heavy snow is also possible around Pierce, with major winter weather impacts anticipated. Commuters should expect hazardous conditions and plan for disruptions, particularly during morning and evening commutes. Avoid travel if possible and stay updated on the latest weather conditions.
| 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 |
| 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 |