Santa Cruz River At Continental flow report
As of July 15, 2026, Santa Cruz River At Continental is flowing at 0 cfs with a gage height of 1.72 ft, receding 100% over the past 24 hours. Source: USGS gauge #09482000, refreshed throughout the day.
Historical Data
Streamflow Forecast
Over the next 5 days, Santa Cruz River At Continental is expected to rise from today's 11 cfs, toward roughly 35 cfs by 2026-07-19 (likely range 8-149 cfs) -- running well below the seasonal normal.
Powered by PULSE — Snoflo’s forecast engine, trained on this gauge’s full record of storms, snowmelt, and dry spells.
How does this compare to past years?
Year-over-year overlay, annual peak discharge, the full distribution of daily flows on record, and the gauge's rating curve.
Weather Forecast
Next 5 days, hour by hour
Temperature line with weather symbols on top, snow + rain accumulation as columns, humidity as a dotted line.
5-day forecast table
Every 3 hours, broken out across temperature, snow, rain, humidity, and wind.
| Time | Condition | Temp (°F) | Snow (in) | Rain (in) | Humidity (%) | Wind (mps) | Wind dir |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Loading detailed forecast… | |||||||
15-day forecast
Daily temperatures, snow, and rain projected over the next two weeks.
Santa Cruz River At Continental
There are no major tributaries or dams in the immediate vicinity of the streamgauge. Flow in the river is highly seasonal, with peak flows during summer monsoon season and low or no flow during the dry season. Interesting facts about the hydrology of the Santa Cruz River include that it is one of the few rivers in the US that flow north, and that it is a lifeline for many species of plants and animals in the region.
Nearby streamflow levels
Cross-check Santa Cruz River At Continental's discharge against nearby gauges to spot whether the change here is local or regional.
| Gauge | Streamflow |
|---|---|
| Santa Cruz River At Continental | 0 cfs |
| Santa Cruz Nr Amado | 0 cfs |
| Santa Cruz River At Tubac | 0 cfs |
| Pantano Wash Near Vail | 0 cfs |
| Cienga Creek Near Sonoita | 0 cfs |
| Santa Cruz River At Tucson | 0 cfs |
River levels & flood safety
- Read the level before you go
- A river that's runnable at one flow can be deadly at another. Check current discharge and gage height — like the values shown above — against the flood-stage thresholds, and remember levels can spike fast after rain or a dam release.
- Respect cold water
- Snowmelt rivers run cold even in summer. Sudden immersion triggers cold-water shock and saps strength within minutes. Wear a PFD, dress for the water temperature (not the air), and never wade or paddle alone.
- Watch for swiftwater hazards
- Strainers (downed trees), undercut rocks, and low-head dams are the deadliest features on moving water. High, fast, muddy water hides them. If in doubt, scout from shore and portage.
- Mind flash floods & releases
- Narrow canyons can flood from a storm miles upstream, and dam-controlled reaches can rise without warning. Know the forecast, the release schedule, and your exit before you launch.
Track Santa Cruz River At Continental in the Snoflo app
Save this gauge as a favorite, set push alerts when streamflow crosses a threshold (e.g. "alert me when Santa Cruz River At Continental crosses 5,000 cfs"), and Snoflo's iOS app will push the moment USGS reports the crossing.
About Santa Cruz River At Continental
Where does the streamflow data for Santa Cruz River At Continental come from?
Discharge, gage height, and water temperature come directly from the USGS streamflow gauge 09482000. Snoflo refreshes the time series throughout the day. Forecasts come from the NOAA / yr.no feed Snoflo's iOS app uses.
How often is the report updated?
USGS gauges report continuously (typically every 15 minutes). Snoflo pulls fresh values throughout the day — look for the "as of" timestamp on the streamflow hero card.
What's the difference between discharge and gage height?
Discharge (cubic feet per second, or cfs) is the volume of water flowing past the gauge each second. Gage height is how high the water sits at the gauge (feet). They're related by a rating curve specific to each gauge — higher water means more flow, but the exact ratio depends on channel shape.
How is "percent of median" calculated?
Today's discharge is compared to the historical median discharge on this calendar day across the gauge's full record. 100% = right on median; 200% = a very high year; 30% = a drought-level low.
What are flood stages, and is this river safe right now?
Flood stages are NWS-defined gage-height thresholds — Action, Minor, Moderate, Major — marking when nearby roads or floodplains start to be affected. "Safe" depends on your activity and skill: a level that's a fun paddle for an expert can be lethal for a wader. Always check the current level against the thresholds above and the safety links, and when in doubt, stay off the water.
Can I get alerts when Santa Cruz River At Continental rises?
Yes — flow alerts are managed in the Snoflo iOS app. Favorite this gauge, set a streamflow threshold (e.g. "alert me when discharge crosses 5,000 cfs"), and you'll get a push the moment USGS reports the crossing.
Access the free Santa Cruz River At Continental report
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