IDAHO FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: January 6, 2026

In Idaho, river enthusiasts should be aware of varying streamflow conditions across the state's waterways. The Kootenai River at Leonia is notably high with a current streamflow of 25,800 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is 181.07% of normal, indicating potential flooding risks for nearby communities and a surge for whitewater enthusiasts. In contrast, the Snake River near Irwin is experiencing flow drought conditions, flowing at only 912 cfs, which is 21.37% below normal. Additionally, the Falls River near Chester is significantly low at 48.17% below normal, which could impact local aquatic habitats and recreational activities.

For whitewater adventurers, the South Fork of the Coeur d'Alene River near Pinehurst shows a high flow of 828 cfs, which is over twice the normal flow, offering challenging conditions. Meanwhile, the Salmon River at White Bird is flowing at a healthier 8,170 cfs, close to normal levels, providing suitable conditions for rafting. On the other hand, the Weiser River near Cambridge is showing an extraordinary flow at 460.3% of normal, which could pose hazards and should be approached with caution. Such variations underscore the importance of staying informed about current conditions for safety and the best recreational experience on Idaho's rivers.

       



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 6 2026

Residents across Idaho must brace for significant winter weather conditions, as advisories are in place warning of substantial snowfall and gusty winds. Snow accumulations of 3 to 7 inches are expected in valleys, with 10-20 inches above 6000 feet in the West Central Mountains and Boise Mountains, leading to slick and hazardous roads. The areas of Big Lost Highlands/Copper Basin, Frank Church Wilderness, Sawtooth/Stanley Basin, and Sun Valley Region may see additional snow accumulations between 2 and 6 inches, impacting commutes. High accumulations and difficult travel conditions are also forecasted for Sandpoint, Schweitzer Mountain Road, Priest River, Clark Fork, and the Centennial Mountains - Island Park area. The Winter Storm Warning indicates particularly severe conditions for Mullan, Fernwood, Kellogg, Pinehurst, and surrounding areas with the possibility of up to 18 inches of snow above 3000 feet. Residents should exercise caution, particularly during commutes, and stay informed of updates as the storm progresses.


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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