* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...A portion of Southwest California, including the following areas, Apple and Lucerne Valleys, Coachella Valley, Orange County Coastal Areas, Orange County Inland Areas, Riverside County Mountains, San Bernardino County Mountains, San Bernardino and Riverside County Valleys-The Inland Empire, San Gorgonio Pass near Banning and Santa Ana Mountains and Foothills. * WHEN...Through Wednesday evening. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Mud and debris flow are possible near and in burn scars, including the Airport, Bridge and Line burn scars. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - An Atmospheric River will bring widespread moderate to heavy rain to the region on Wednesday. The heaviest and most widespread rain is expected Wednesday morning through evening. Peak rainfall rates of 0.50 to 1 inch per hour are expected. There is a potential for locally heavier hourly rainfall rates to develop with convection embedded in the main rain band or in thunderstorms after the main band passes. Isolated heavy showers could continue into Thursday but impacts from any additional rain are expected to be more localized. Snow levels are expected to remain above 8000 feet during period of heaviest precipitation bringing a heightened risk of mud slides, debris flow, and areas of flash flooding in the San Bernardino county mountains. - https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
The ideal streamflow range for this section of the river is between 200-800 cfs. The class rating for this section of the river ranges from Class III to Class V, depending on the water levels. The segment mileage of this run is approximately 10 miles.
Some of the specific river rapids and obstacles that paddlers will encounter on this section of the river include "Sledgehammer," a Class IV rapid with a steep drop and powerful hydraulics, and "The Chute," a Class V rapid with a narrow channel and steep drops. Paddlers should also be prepared for numerous boulder gardens and technical rapids throughout the run.
It is important to note that the Whitewater River Run is located in the San Bernardino National Forest, and specific regulations apply to the area. Permits are required for all overnight camping, and all visitors must abide by Leave No Trace principles. Additionally, there are restrictions on campfires, and all food and trash must be stored in bear-resistant containers.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-19 |
| River Levels | 34 cfs (1.93 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 62% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-v |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 10260500 |