* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...Northwest Oregon and southwest Washington including the following counties. In Oregon: Benton, Clackamas, Clatsop, Columbia, Hood River, Lane, Linn, Lincoln, Marion, Multnomah, Polk, Tillamook, Washington, and Yamhill. In Washington: Clark, Cowlitz, Pacific, Skamania, and Wahkiakum. * WHEN...Through Saturday afternoon. * 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. Storm drains and ditches may become clogged with debris. Area creeks and streams are running high and could flood with more heavy rain. Landslides and debris flows are possible during this flood event. People, structures, and roads located below steep slopes, in canyons, and near the mouths of canyons may be at serious risk from rapidly moving landslides. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - An atmospheric river is forecast to bring periods of heavy rain to northwestern Oregon and southwestern Washington today. This system occurs at a time when area rivers continue to run high and soils remain saturated following heavy rain earlier in the month. During initial heavy rainfall today, the urban and small stream flooding threat will be most urgent, although the details of precise timing and location of the highest risk remains uncertain at this time. As runoff works its way downstream, the river flooding threat will increase tonight into Friday, with numerous area rivers now forecast to reach at least Minor flood stage. Slower reacting rivers may stay in flood stage into Saturday afternoon. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
The ideal streamflow range for Drift Creek is between 700 and 3,000 cubic feet per second (cfs). The river is classified as a Class III run, which is suitable for intermediate to advanced paddlers. The segment mileage for Drift Creek is approximately 9 miles, and it offers a wide range of rapids and obstacles that challenge paddlers.
Some of the notable rapids and obstacles on Drift Creek include "Sewer Hole," "House Rock," "Pinball," and "The Slot." These rapids require skill and experience to navigate safely and provide a thrilling experience for paddlers. However, it is important to be aware of the potential hazards that come with the river run, such as low-hanging trees and undercut rocks.
There are also specific regulations for the Drift Creek area. The use of motorized boats is not permitted, and paddlers are required to wear personal flotation devices at all times. Additionally, paddlers should be aware of private property along the riverbanks and should not trespass or disturb landowners.
In conclusion, Drift Creek is an exciting whitewater river run in Oregon, with an ideal streamflow range between 700 and 3,000 cfs, a Class III rating, and a segment mileage of approximately 9 miles. There are various rapids and obstacles that challenge paddlers, but it is important to be aware of potential hazards and adhere to specific regulations for the area.
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 334 cfs (2.23 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 46% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 14306500 |
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| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
River Edge Group Campground
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Blackberry Campground
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Blackberry
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Big Elk Campground
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Canal Creek Group Campground
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Salmonberry County Park Campground
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