Summary
Total streamflow across the
Carmel River
was last observed at
102
cfs, and is expected to yield approximately
202
acre-ft of water today; about 63%
of normal.
River levels are low and may signify a drought.
Average streamflow for this time of year is
162 cfs,
with recent peaks last observed
on
2023-03-11 when daily discharge volume was observed at
6,270 cfs.
Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the
Carmel R A Robles Del Rio Ca
reporting a streamflow rate of 102 cfs.
However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the
Carmel R Nr Carmel Ca
with a gauge stage of 3.31 ft.
This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Carmel River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 272 ft, the
Carmel R A Robles Del Rio Ca.
River Details
| Last Updated | 2026-01-22 |
| Discharge Volume | 202 ACRE-FT |
| Streamflow |
102.0 cfs
-6.0 cfs (-5.56%) |
| Percent of Normal | 63.16% |
| Maximum |
6,270.0 cfs
2023-03-11 |
| Seasonal Avg | cfs |
River Streamflow Levels
| Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Carmel R A Robles Del Rio Ca
USGS 11143200 |
102 cfs | 2.66 ft | -5.56 | |||||
|
Carmel R Nr Carmel Ca
USGS 11143250 |
86 cfs | 3.31 ft | -6.65 |
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile
The river has a rich history dating back thousands of years, as it was used by the Esselen and Rumsen tribes for fishing and gathering. The river's hydrology has been significantly altered by the construction of several dams and reservoirs, including the San Clemente and Los Padres Dams. These reservoirs provide water for agricultural and municipal use, and also serve as recreational areas for fishing, boating, and hiking. The Carmel River is a vital resource for the surrounding communities, and efforts have been made to protect and restore its natural flow and ecosystem.