TOTAL RIVER DISCHARGE
Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the reporting a streamflow rate of cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Chelan River, with a gauge stage of ft at this location. This river is monitored from 1 different streamgauging stations along the Chelan River, the highest being situated at an altitude of ft, the .
The Chelan River is a 24-mile-long river located in central Washington State. The river originates from Lake Chelan and flows into the Columbia River. The Chelan River has a rich history, as it was used by Native American tribes for fishing and transportation. Today, the river is used for hydroelectric power generation and irrigation. There are several dams and reservoirs along the river, including the Lake Chelan Dam and the Rocky Reach Dam. These dams help regulate water levels and generate electricity for the area. The Chelan River is also a popular recreational destination, with activities such as fishing, hiking, and whitewater rafting. The river is utilized for agricultural purposes as well, with several orchards and vineyards located along its banks.
YEAR OVER YEAR DISCHARGE (CFS)
Streamflow Conditions
| Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Chelan River At Chelan
USGS 12452500 |
81 cfs | 7.14 ft | 0 |
History of the River
The Chelan River is a tributary of the Columbia River, in the U.S. state of Washington. Just 4.1 miles (6.6 km) long, it is the shortest river in Washington. Lake Chelan Dam is located at the river's source: the outlet of Lake Chelan. Nearly the entire river's flow is diverted to the Lake Chelan Powerhouse, 3.9 miles (6.3 km) downstream near the river's mouth. Thus the Chelan River is almost always dry. Statistics on the streamflow are taken at the tailrace of the powerhouse, measuring the water that would flow through the river were it not diverted, although not including small tributaries, including Daybreak Canyon, that join the Chelan riverbed from the Lake Chelan Dam to the canal outlet.