A series of wet weather systems moving across the region will increase the threat of river flooding early next week. * WHAT...Flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE...Portions of northwest and west central Washington, including the following counties, in northwest Washington, Clallam, Grays Harbor, Island, Jefferson, Kitsap, Mason, San Juan, Skagit and Whatcom. In west central Washington, King, Lewis, Pierce, Snohomish and Thurston. * WHEN...From late Sunday night through Friday 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. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - An atmospheric river moving into the region early next week will bring periods moderate to heavy rain to the region. Sharp rises will be possible on area rivers, especially those flowing off the Olympics and Cascades. Urban and small stream flooding is possible for areas with poor drainage. Saturated soils will bring increased potential for landslides and debris flows on burn scars. - Http://www.weather.gov/safety/flood
The ideal streamflow range for this river is between 1,000 and 3,000 cubic feet per second (cfs) for an enjoyable and safe experience.
This section of the Whitewater River is rated as Class III-IV, meaning that it features moderate to difficult rapids with high waves, steep drops, and obstacles that require technical river skills. The total segment mileage of this section is approximately 10 miles, running from the Goat Rocks Wilderness boundary to the confluence with Muddy Fork Cowlitz River.
Some of the specific rapids and obstacles on this run include Roughhouse Falls, a 15-foot drop that requires precise navigation, and Corkscrew, a rapid with a sharp turn and large waves. Other notable rapids include The Slot, The Squeeze, and The Boulders.
In terms of regulations, all visitors to the area must obtain a wilderness permit from the U.S. Forest Service. In addition, visitors should be aware of Leave No Trace principles and be prepared to pack out all trash and waste. Finally, visitors should be respectful of the natural environment and avoid damaging vegetation or disturbing wildlife.
| Last Updated | 2025-12-04 |
| River Levels | 2230 cfs (2.36 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 62% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 14226500 |
Cowlitz River At Packwood
|
1110cfs |
Cispus River Ab Yellowjacket Creek Near Randle
|
716cfs |
Cowlitz River At Randle
|
1610cfs |
Nisqually River Near National
|
798cfs |
Puyallup River Near Electron
|
886cfs |
Mineral Creek Near Mineral
|
360cfs |
Goat Rocks Wilderness Boundary To Confluence With Muddy Fork Cowlitz River
Mt. Ranier Np/Gifford Pinchot Nf Boundary To Confluence With Clear Fork Cowlitz River
Tatoosh Wilderness Boundary To Confluence With Clear Fork Cowlitz River
Gifford Pinchot Nf Boundary To Tatoosh Wilderness Boundary
Junction Of Muddy And Clear Forks Cowlitz To Gifford Pinchot Nf Boundary
Begins 1/4 Mile South Of Box Canyon To Southern Boundary Of Mount Rainier National Park