Flood Watch
2025-12-20T04:00:00-08:00

* WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall continues to be possible. * WHERE...Portions of Oregon, including the following areas, Benton County Lowlands, Cascade Foothills of Marion and Linn Counties, Cascades of Lane County, Cascades of Marion and Linn Counties, Central Coast of Oregon, Central Columbia River Gorge I-84 Corridor, Central Oregon Coast Range, Central Oregon Coast Range Lowlands, Clackamas County Cascade Foothills, Clatsop County Coast, East Central Willamette Valley, East Portland Metro, Inner Portland Metro, Lane County Cascade Foothills, Lane County Lowlands, Linn County Lowlands, Lower Columbia River, North Oregon Cascades, North Oregon Coast Range, North Oregon Coast Range Lowlands, Outer Southeast Portland Metro, Portland West Hills and Chehalem Mountain, Tillamook County Coast, Tualatin Valley, Upper Hood River Valley, West Central Willamette Valley, West Columbia River Gorge I-84 Corridor and West Columbia River Gorge of Oregon above 500 ft and southwest Washington, including the following areas, Central Columbia River Gorge SR 14 Corridor, Cowlitz County Lowlands, East Clark County Lowlands, Inner Vancouver Metro, North Clark County Lowlands, South Washington Cascade Foothills, South Washington Cascades, South Washington Coast, West Columbia River Gorge SR 14 Corridor, Willapa Hills and Willapa and Wahkiakum Lowlands. * WHEN...From late tonight through late Friday night. * 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 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 on Thursday, 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 Thursday night into Friday, with numerous area rivers now forecast to reach at least Minor flood stage. - http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood


Nelson Creek Paddle Report

Last Updated: 2025-06-28

The Nelson Creek segment of the Whitewater River in Oregon is a popular destination for kayaking and rafting.


°F

°F

mph

Wind

%

Humidity

Summary

The ideal streamflow range for this section is between 400-800 cfs, as water levels below 400 cfs may be too low to navigate and levels above 800 cfs may be too dangerous. The segment covers approximately 6 miles and is rated as a Class III-IV difficulty level, with several challenging rapids such as "Toilet Bowl" and "Pinball."

As with all whitewater runs, safety is a top priority. Kayakers and rafters should wear helmets and personal flotation devices at all times and be familiar with rescue techniques. The Nelson Creek segment is also subject to specific regulations, including a permit requirement for all commercial outfitters. Additionally, the use of motorized watercraft is not permitted on this section of the river.

Overall, the Nelson Creek segment of the Whitewater River provides a thrilling and challenging experience for experienced kayakers and rafters. It is important to consider water levels and safety regulations before embarking on any whitewater adventure.

River Run Details

Last Updated 2025-06-28
River Levels 3 cfs (2.22 ft)
Percent of Normal 32%
Status
Class Level iii-iv
Elevation ft
Streamflow Discharge cfs
Gauge Height ft
Reporting Streamgage USGS 14306340
       

Weather Forecast