OREGON FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Oregon's rivers are currently experiencing a variety of streamflow conditions, with many running below their seasonal averages, raising concerns for water enthusiasts and indicating potential flow droughts in several regions. The Columbia River at The Dalles, a major waterway, is flowing at 107,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), just slightly below normal, but has seen a notable increase of 9.41 cfs in the last 24 hours. In contrast, the Umatilla River near Umatilla is significantly lower at -58% of its normal flow, worrying for both ecology and recreation. The Rogue River, a popular destination for whitewater rafting, especially near Grants Pass and McLeod, is also flowing well below average at -45.37% and -31.54% of normal flows, respectively. This could affect both the rafting season and the ecosystems dependent on these waters.

The significant decrease in streamflow is evident in key locations such as the South Umpqua River near Brockway, at an alarming -92.99% of its normal flow, and the Siuslaw River near Mapleton, flowing at -80.18% of normal, which could signal severe flow droughts. Conversely, the Willamette River, a vital watercourse running through major cities like Portland, Salem, and Corvallis, shows high variability; the branch at Corvallis is at -45.13% of its normal flow with a current streamflow of 4370 cfs, while at Portland, it has seen a dramatic increase of 751.61 cfs. Whitewater enthusiasts and anglers should take note of the river conditions and prepare for potentially shorter or more challenging seasons. Cities and environmental agencies could face challenges related to water supply and management of aquatic habitats, while the observed trends suggest a need for continued monitoring and possibly conservation measures if the trend continues.

       



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.


       

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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