2025-12-26T16:00:00-08:00
A series of warm atmospheric rivers will bring moderate to heavy rain to the Valley, foothills, and mountains the week of Christmas. The prolonged period of rain will bring the risk of flooding to the Sacramento Valley, northern San Joaquin Valley, northern Sierra Nevada and adjacent foothills, as well as the Coastal Range. * WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE...A portion of northern California, including the following areas, the Sacramento Valley, northern San Joaquin Valley, Delta region, Sierra Nevada and adjacent foothills, and Coastal Range. * WHEN...From Saturday afternoon through next Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff will result in rises along area rivers, creeks, streams. Small streams and creeks may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in low-lying, poor drainage, and urban areas. Mudslides and rockslides may occur in mountain and foothill areas. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Periods of moderate to heavy rain are forecast the week of Christmas. Debris flows are not expected over recent burn scars, but do anticipate enhanced runoff in/below scars. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for this section is between 200 and 800 cubic feet per second (cfs), which typically occurs during the spring and early summer months. The class rating for this section is class III to IV, with a segment mileage of approximately 11 miles.
There are several notable rapids and obstacles along the Battle Creek section, including "Pinball," "Pirate's Cove," and "Hells Kitchen." Pinball is a technical rapid with several channels and large boulders, while Pirate's Cove is a steep and narrow drop that requires precise maneuvering. Hells Kitchen is a long rapid with several drops and wave trains.
There are specific regulations in place for the Battle Creek section. All visitors must obtain a permit from the Bureau of Land Management, and groups are limited to a maximum of 15 people. Additionally, visitors must abide by Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash. It is important to note that this section of the river is not suitable for inexperienced boaters and should only be attempted by those with advanced skills and experience.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 749 cfs (2.09 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 90% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 11376550 |
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Reading Island
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Massacre Flat
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Camping world
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Battle Creek
Sacramento River
Paynes Creek