UTAH FLOW REPORT

Last Updated: January 1, 2026

The streamflows in Utah's rivers are showing variability with some rivers currently flowing at levels significantly below normal, indicating potential flow droughts and reduced water availability for river users. The Colorado River near Cisco, for instance, is flowing at 2,080 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is about 29% below what is typical for this time of year, possibly affecting the water supply for the surrounding communities and ecosystems. Similarly, the Green River near Greendale and Jensen is also flowing below normal by approximately 30% and 47%, respectively. This could have implications for whitewater activities in these popular areas, including the Dinosaur National Monument near the Green River. Conversely, some rivers like the Dirty Devil above Poison Spring Wash near Hanksville are experiencing higher-than-normal streamflows, currently at 173 cfs, which is over 58% above the norm and might be cause for attention due to possible flooding risks.

Notably, the Virgin River near Hurricane is flowing at 190 cfs, which is just above the normal rate, indicating stable conditions in that watershed. However, the Virgin River at Virgin is slightly below normal, potentially impacting water enthusiasts in that region. Additionally, the Sevier River, vital for irrigation and wildlife, is showing signs of decreased flow, which, if persistent, may affect agricultural activities. While the Bear River near Corinne is above normal flow, it is not by a significant margin, presenting less immediate concern for abnormal conditions. Enthusiasts and stakeholders should stay informed about such trends as the season progresses, considering the importance of these rivers for recreational activities, local economies, and environmental health. With streamflow changes occurring in the last 24 hours across these rivers, it's crucial for enthusiasts to keep up-to-date with the latest data for safety and planning purposes.

       



Utah has a semi-arid climate with variable precipitation patterns and significant snowfall in the mountains. Major surface flows include the Great Salt Lake, Utah Lake, and Bear Lake, with numerous reservoirs and dams throughout the state. The Colorado River and its tributaries, including the Green River, are vital sources of water for Utah. The state's hydrology is heavily influenced by its topography, with the Wasatch Mountains playing a key role in snowpack accumulation and runoff. The snowpack is critical for providing water to the state's major rivers and irrigation systems. Watershed data is closely monitored to predict and manage water availability in the state, with a focus on balancing agricultural, municipal, and environmental needs.


       

Winter Storm Warnings

January 1 2026

The National Weather Service in Salt Lake City has issued multiple Winter Weather Advisories for parts of Utah, warning residents of significant snowfall and potential freezing rain. Areas above 7500 ft in the Wasatch Mountains, both north and south of I-80, as well as the Western Uinta Mountains, are expected to experience 3 to 12 inches of snow, with local accumulations up to 12 inches through Friday at 11 AM MST. Additionally, the Great Salt Lake Desert, Tooele, and Rush Valleys may see up to one-tenth of an inch of freezing rain, creating slick and hazardous road conditions that could impact travel, including the morning commute on I-80. Residents in these regions should exercise caution, especially during the heaviest snowfall late Thursday evening into early Friday morning, and remain vigilant for freezing rain which could extend beyond the initial forecast period.


Rafting & Kayaking

River Run Status Streamflow (CFS) Air Temp (F)
3rd Dam to 2nd Dam
Class II+ to III
TOO HIGH 199 62
A Section
Class I to II
RUNNABLE 1200 64
Avantiquan
Class III
49.26
B Section
Class II+ to III-
TOO HIGH 1200 64
RUNNABLE 3430 70
Bridal Veil (BV)
Class III to IV
TOO HIGH 340 63
C Section
Class II- to II
RUNNABLE 1200 64
Calf Creek to Lake Powell
Class III- to III
TOO LOW 128 66
Cataract Canyon
Class III to IV
65.7
TOO HIGH 4620 77
Clear Creek
Class III- to III
55.09
Desolation Canyon
Class II to III
TOO HIGH 2600 83
RUNNABLE 44.8 56
TOO LOW 53.8 69
Green River Daily
Class II to II+
63.28
Henefer to Taggert
Class II- to III
RUNNABLE 0.77 68
TOO HIGH 4620 77
I-70 to Tomsich Butte
Class II to III-
RUNNABLE 14.1 71
TOO HIGH 2600 83
TOO LOW 505 74
Little Grand Canyon
Class I to II
58.46
Logan Town Run
Class II+ to III-
TOO HIGH 127 64
Lower Ogden
Class III+
TOO LOW 153 61
Marysvale Canyon
Class III- to IV
TOO LOW 505 74
RUNNABLE 530 80
TOO HIGH 239 60
TOO HIGH 4620 77
RUNNABLE 0.77 68
RUNNABLE 0.77 68
47.07
TOO LOW 59.5 82
Ogden Narrows
Class III+ to IV
RUNNABLE 153 61
TOO HIGH 324 71
RUNNABLE 888 60
TOO HIGH 92.3 73
57.18
52.11
Rainbow Gardens
Class III to IV-
RUNNABLE 153 61
TOO HIGH 127 64
Riverdale Wave
Class III-
TOO LOW 0.77 68
RUNNABLE 0.77 68
RUNNABLE 530 80
47.46
TOO HIGH 308 69
Sixth Water
Class V- to V
RUNNABLE 31.9 67
TOO HIGH 11.7 62
RUNNABLE 76.1 67
Spanish Fork
Class III-
RUNNABLE 148 71
Split Mountain
Class II+ to IV-
RUNNABLE 888 60
RUNNABLE 888 60
TOO HIGH 127 64
RUNNABLE 155 58
RUNNABLE 888 60
RUNNABLE 14.1 71
52.43
TOO LOW 59.5 82
TOO HIGH 59.6 62
TOO HIGH 59.6 62
TOO HIGH 59.6 62
Upper Provo Falls
Class V- to V+
RUNNABLE 239 60
RUNNABLE 239 60
TOO LOW 59.5 82
Wellington to Woodside
Class II to II+
56.41
RUNNABLE 44.8 56
Westwater
Class III to IV
TOO HIGH 4620 77
60.89
RUNNABLE 61.8 64
RUNNABLE 61.8 64
Zion Narrows
Class III+
TOO LOW 93.8 83