2025-12-26T16:00:00-08:00
* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...A portion of Southwest California, including the following areas, Apple and Lucerne Valleys, San Bernardino County Mountains and San Bernardino and Riverside County Valleys-The Inland Empire. * WHEN...From midnight PST tonight through Friday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Low-water crossings may be flooded. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Extensive heavy rainfall in the San Bernardino Mountains that resulted in instances of flash flooding and debris flow in the mountains and adjacent drainages in the northern Inland Empire and High Desert yesterday have saturated the soils and drainage banks. An additional 1-3 inches (and locally up to 4 inches) of rainfall is expected in the mountains Friday. While rainfall rates will be generally lighter than yesterday (closer to 0.3-0.6"/hr), the saturated soils and drainage banks will likely be more susceptible to flash flooding with the additional rainfall. Snow levels will generally be around 7500-8000ft for this secondary round of precipitation into Friday. - Https://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 200-500 cfs, with higher flows occurring during the winter months. The river is rated as a class II-III, with some sections reaching class IV during high water levels. The river spans over 30 miles, with the most popular segment being the Whitewater River Run, which covers approximately 6.5 miles.
The Whitewater River Run features several exciting rapids and obstacles, including Devil's Hole, a class III rapid with a large boulder in the center, and the Narrows, a narrow section of the river with fast-moving water and large boulders. Other notable rapids include Pinball, S-Turn, and the Elevator.
There are specific regulations in place for the Santa Margarita River, including a permit system operated by the San Diego County Parks and Recreation Department. All boaters must obtain a permit before accessing the river, and there are restrictions on the number of daily permits issued. Additionally, boaters are required to wear personal flotation devices and adhere to Leave No Trace principles.
Overall, the Santa Margarita River offers a thrilling whitewater experience for both novice and experienced boaters. However, it is important to check current streamflow levels and adhere to all regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 10 cfs (2.12 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 57% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | ii-iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 11044350 |
Santa Margarita River
Devil Canyon Tributary To San Mateo Creek
Loma Linda Park
Pala Community Park
Temecula Duck Pond
Village Square Park
John Magee Park