Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the reporting a streamflow rate of cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Chiwawa River, with a gauge stage of ft at this location. This river is monitored from 1 different streamgauging stations along the Chiwawa River, the highest being situated at an altitude of ft, the .
The Chiwawa River is located in north-central Washington state, USA. It flows approximately 34 miles from its headwaters in the Wenatchee Mountains to its confluence with the Wenatchee River. The river has a long history of use by Native American tribes for fishing and hunting, and it was later used by European settlers for logging and mining.
The hydrology of the Chiwawa River is heavily influenced by snowmelt, with peak flows occurring in late spring or early summer. There are several reservoirs and dams on the river, including the Chiwawa River Hydroelectric Project, which generates electricity for the region.
Recreational activities in the area include fishing, camping, hiking, and whitewater rafting. The river also supports irrigation for agriculture in the region, with water used to irrigate crops such as apples and pears.
Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Chiwawa River Near Plain
USGS 12456500 |
162 cfs | 4.17 ft | 28.57 |
The Chiwawa River is a tributary of the Wenatchee River, in the U.S. state of Washington. It is completely contained within Chelan County.
Much of the Chiwawa River's drainage basin is designated national forest and wilderness. The upper Chiwawa watershed is in nearly pristine condition.The river is part of the Columbia River basin, being a tributary of the Wenatchee River, which is tributary to the Columbia River.
The river's name comes from a Columbia-Moses term meaning of kind of creek ("wawa" creek). A large number of place names in the Chiwawa River basin were given by Albert H. Sylvester.