IDAHO FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 20, 2025

In the state of Idaho, river enthusiasts and water resource managers are observing a diverse range of streamflow conditions across various watersheds. The Kootenai, Salmon, and Boise Rivers show significantly varied flow metrics that are of particular interest. Notably, the Kootenai River at Leonia reveals an elevated streamflow of 32,100 cubic feet per second (cfs), 45.74% above normal, potentially impacting areas near Bonners Ferry. On the contrary, the Bear River at the Idaho-Utah State Line is flowing at 415 cfs, 29.17% below the seasonal average, suggesting a potential flow drought that may affect regional water availability. The Boise River near Twin Springs has experienced a dramatic 52.91% increase in streamflow over the last 24 hours, reaching 1,500 cfs, well above the normal range, which indicates a risk of flooding that communities downstream, including those near Boise, should monitor closely.

Popular whitewater trails along the Salmon River may also see increased activity, as streamflow rates are generally above average, particularly at White Bird with a flow of 8,560 cfs and a gage height of 14.84 feet, offering conditions that may appeal to more experienced paddlers. Conversely, the Snake River across multiple points, such as near Irwin and Heise, registers decreased flows, with 29.6% and 19.2% below normal, respectively. This could affect recreational activities and the ecological health of the river. As the spring season progresses, water enthusiasts should stay informed on current conditions, as the dynamic nature of the rivers in Idaho can lead to sudden changes that may impact both accessibility and safety on the water.

       



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 20 2025

The National Weather Service has issued multiple high-level avalanche warnings for parts of Idaho, emphasizing the severe risk to the Sawtooths, White Clouds, Smokys, Boulders, and Pioneers mountain ranges, including areas near Atlanta, Stanley, Smiley Creek, Galena Summit, and Trail Creek Summit. Residents and visitors are urged to avoid backcountry travel as the avalanche danger is categorized as HIGH due to heavy snowfall and strong winds overloading a fragile snowpack. The warnings are in effect from early morning Saturday to Sunday, indicating that human-triggered avalanches are extremely likely and could have devastating impacts such as burying individuals, snapping trees, and destroying structures. Additionally, a winter weather advisory cautions of challenging driving conditions on routes like Highway 12 Lowell to Lolo Pass, Dixie, and Elk City, with snow accumulations up to 6 inches and reduced visibility from gusty winds. Residents should exercise extreme caution, postpone travel in the affected areas, and stay updated on the latest advisories.


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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