OREGON FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 22, 2025

Oregon's water enthusiasts should prepare for a dynamic season across the state's rivers and streams. The Owyhee River near Rome is experiencing a significantly low streamflow at just 7.95% of its normal flow, while the Snake River at Hells Canyon Dam shows a robust 19200 cfs, albeit at 36.05% of its usual volume. The Grande Ronde River at Troy notably exceeds its average at 114.43%, and the John Day River at McDonald Ferry is experiencing an abnormal surge to 292.78% of its typical flow. Conversely, the Deschutes River near Madras and the Metolius River near Grandview are both well below normal, at 6.84% and 13.1% respectively. These figures reflect a wide range in water levels that may impact recreational activities and habitats.

Specifically, the Umatilla River near Pendleton has decreased by a stark 33.55 cfs in the last 24 hours, signaling a potential flow drought, while the Columbia River at The Dalles reports a massive flow of 147000 cfs, despite being at only 27.08% of its normal volume. In the Willamette Valley, the Willamette River at Albany flows at a considerable 42700 cfs, close to average for this season. Whitewater enthusiasts should note significant drops in popular trails like the Sandy River near Marmot and the Hood River at Tucker Bridge, both showing reduced streamflows of 2800 cfs and 2300 cfs respectively. With such variability, paddlers and anglers alike should stay informed about current conditions, as circumstances like the considerable increase at the John Day River at McDonald Ferry could lead to potential flooding, significantly impacting surrounding communities and ecosystems.

       



Oregon's surface flows are impacted by its varied hydrology and climate characteristics. Major rivers and tributaries include the Columbia, Snake, and Willamette. Reservoirs and dams, such as the Bonneville Dam and the Dalles Dam, have been constructed along these waterways to provide hydroelectric power and irrigation. Snowpack is a crucial factor in Oregon's water supply, with the majority of the state's precipitation occurring in the winter months. In recent years, lower than average snowpack levels have led to drought conditions and water shortages. The Klamath Basin has been a focal point in the state's water management, with disputes arising between farmers, tribes, and environmental advocates over water allocation. Overall, Oregon's water resources are complex and often contentious, requiring careful management and planning.


       

Winter Storm Warnings

December 22 2025

Residents of Clackamas and Marion counties in Oregon, particularly those in the vicinity of Pudding River at Aurora, should remain alert as the National Weather Service maintains a flood warning until just after midnight tonight. Considerable flooding has been affecting low-lying agricultural land and secondary roads. The Pudding River has already reached a stage of 23.0 feet, surpassing the flood stage of 22.0 feet. Elsewhere, a high wind watch is in effect for the Klamath Basin, including Klamath Falls, and areas around Lake County such as Silver Lake and Lakeview. From Tuesday afternoon through Wednesday morning, winds could reach 25 to 35 mph with potential gusts up to 60 mph, posing risks of property damage, power outages, and hazardous travel conditions for high profile vehicles. Citizens are urged to secure loose outdoor items and stay informed about the latest weather updates.


Rafting & Kayaking

River Run Status Streamflow (CFS) Air Temp (F)
Bend to Tumalo State Park (Riverhouse Run)
Class IV to IV+
RUNNABLE 771 44
Benham Falls to Dillon Falls
Class V- to V+
TOO LOW 771 44
Big River to Benham Falls
Class I to II
27.55
Canyon Run (Lower Bridge to Billy Chinook Res.)
Class IV- to IV+
TOO LOW 512 51
Cline Falls State Park to Lower Bridge
Class III
TOO LOW 512 51
Dillon Falls to Mount Bachelor Village (Big Eddy)
Class III to V
TOO LOW 512 51
Dillon Falls to Mount Bachelor Village (Big Eddy)
Class III to V
TOO LOW 512 51
Gold Ray Dam to Grants Pass
Class II+ to IV
RUNNABLE 2400 53
Grants Pass to Grave Creek
Class II to II+
RUNNABLE 2400 53
Grave Creek to Foster Bar
Class III to IV
RUNNABLE 3120 53
Lost Creek Lake to Gold Ray Dam
Class II to II+
RUNNABLE 953 51
Lower Deschutes (Sherars Falls to Columbia River)
Class III to III+
RUNNABLE 3660 51
Lower (Rome to Leslie Gulch)
Class II+ to III+
RUNNABLE 1900 55
Miami Bar to Oak Flat
Class IV+ to V
TOO LOW 2750 51
Middle (Three Forks to Rome)
Class III to V-
RUNNABLE 1900 55
Mill City to Mehama
Class II- to II
RUNNABLE 1600 47
Packsaddle County Park to Mill City
Class II+ to III+
RUNNABLE 1600 47
Pringle Falls to Big River Campground
Class I to II-
32.83
Roseland Park to Deschutes River
Class I
33.28
Salmon River Canyon (Split Falls to Road Access)
Class V to V+
117 40
Tumalo State Park to Cline Falls State Park
Class III- to III+
TOO LOW 512 51
Warm Springs to Sherars Falls
Class III to III+
RUNNABLE 3660 51
Welches Run
Class II+ to III
619 46
Wickiup Dam to Pringle Falls Campground
Class I
32.72
       
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