Near-record precipitation is possible this week as two Atmospheric Rivers will move through the region. The first one arrives today and continues through Tuesday, followed by a second, stronger one Tuesday night through Thursday. Between 4 and 10 inches of moderate to heavy rain are expected in the mountains. For some locations, near record rainfall amounts are possible. The rain, falling on the current snowpack, combined with mild nighttime temperatures will increase snowmelt. Flows in rivers may increase quickly and reach critical levels. * WHAT...Flooding caused by rain and snowmelt continues to be possible. * WHERE...Portions of central and panhandle Idaho, including the following counties, in central Idaho, Idaho. In panhandle Idaho, Clearwater. * WHEN...From 5 PM MST /4 PM PST/ this afternoon through Thursday afternoon. * IMPACTS...Creeks and streams may rise out of their banks. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. Storm drains and ditches may become clogged with debris. People, structures, and roads located below steep slopes, in canyons, and near the mouths of canyons may be at risk from landslides. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - A prolonged atmospheric river is expected to bring periods of heavy rain to Idaho and Clearwater Counties, Monday night through Thursday. Rising snow levels will lead to a rain on snow event for elevations below 7,000 feet Monday night into Tuesday morning. The precipitation rates will briefly decrease Tuesday afternoon, before a second surge of moisture arrives Tuesday night into Thursday morning with snow levels rising to near 8,000 feet. By Thursday, significant precipitation totals are forecast, with 2 to 5 inches in the valleys and 5 to 10 inches in the mountains, with locally higher totals over mountain crests. Landslides in areas of steep terrain and minor flooding in urban and poor drainage areas is possible. - https://www.weather.gov/mso/hydrology
The ideal streamflow range for this section of the river is between 500 and 1,500 cubic feet per second (cfs). The river is rated as a Class III-IV, making it suitable for experienced paddlers. The segment mileage for this section of the river is approximately 6 miles, starting at the Road Crossing in Section 14, T31N, R9E and ending at the Headwaters.
There are several rapids and obstacles along the route, including the infamous "Boulder Garden" and "Pinball," which can be challenging even for experienced kayakers. It is important for paddlers to be aware of the river's hazards and to take appropriate safety measures.
In terms of regulations, the Whitewater River Run is located in the Payette National Forest, and permits are required for overnight camping. Visitors are also expected to follow Leave No Trace principles and to respect the natural environment.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-07 |
| River Levels | 6370 cfs (6.32 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 106% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 13336500 |
Selway River Nr Lowell Id
|
1730cfs |
Lochsa River Nr Lowell Id
|
1520cfs |
Sf Clearwater River Nr Elk City Id
|
42cfs |
Clear Ck At Kooskia National Fish Hatchery
|
18cfs |
Sf Clearwater River At Stites Id
|
375cfs |
Lolo Creek Nr Greer Id
|
771cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Slims Camp
|
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Selway Falls
|
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Race Track
|
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Selway Falls Campground
|
||
Fog Mountain - Dispersed
|
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Gedney Creek
|
Road Crossing, Sec. 14, T31N, R9E To Headwaters
Selway River, Sec. 11, T31N, R9E To Road Crossing, Sec. 14, T31N, R9E
Fs Road 319 To Selway River Road (Fs 223)
Wilderness Boundary To Fs Road 319
Headwaters (Sec 5, T32N, R10E) To Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness Boundary
Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness Boundary, Sec. 35, T33N, R9E To Headwaters, Sec. 33, T33N, R10E