2025-12-24T22:00:00-08:00
* 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...Until 10 PM PST this 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 today. The heaviest and most widespread rain is expected through this 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
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for this segment is between 200-400 cfs. However, during peak flow season, the river can reach up to 1,000 cfs, making it dangerous for inexperienced paddlers.
The North Fork Headwaters segment is rated as a Class IV-V, which means that the river can have big and technical rapids, steep drops, and powerful currents. The segment mileage is approximately 8.5 miles, and it typically takes between 4-6 hours to complete.
Some of the specific rapids on this segment include Hell Hole, which is a Class V rapid that requires precise maneuvering to avoid a dangerous hole. Another notable rapid is Upper Staircase, which is a Class IV rapid with steep drops and technical moves.
There are specific regulations that paddlers must follow when visiting this area. The Whitewater River is part of the San Gorgonio Wilderness, and therefore, visitors must obtain a wilderness permit from the Forest Service before entering. Additionally, visitors must pack out all trash and use portable toilets or bury human waste to minimize environmental impact.
Overall, the North Fork Headwaters at Mine Shaft Saddle to NF Boundary segment on the Whitewater River is a challenging and exciting run that requires skill and experience to navigate safely. Paddlers must be aware of the ideal streamflow range, class rating, specific rapids, and regulations for the area to ensure a successful trip.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | |
| River Levels | 0 cfs (0.48 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | +100% |
| Optimal Range | 200-400 cfs |
| Status | Too Low |
| Class Level | iv-v |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 10255900 |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Mission Springs
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Big Tree
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Whitewater Preserve
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Mineshaft Flat
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Fish Creek Saddle
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Coon Creek Cabin Group Campground
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North Fork Headwaters At Mine Shaft Saddle To Nf Boundary
South Fork - Wilderness Boundary/Sfdiversion Dam To Confluence With Mainstream
Middle Fork Headwaters At Middle Fork Jumpoff To Confluence With North Fork
Mission Creek
West Fork Mission Creek
Big Morongo Regional Park
Pass Valley Park
Repplier Park