MERCED RIVER

Last Updated: April 14, 2026

Total streamflow across the Merced River was last observed at 1,973 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 3,913 acre-ft of water today; about 72% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 2,749 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2023-05-22 when daily discharge volume was observed at 14,180 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Merced R A Pohono Bridge Nr Yosemite Ca reporting a streamflow rate of 1,320 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Merced River, with a gauge stage of 4.92 ft at this location. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Merced River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 4,029 ft, the Merced R A Happy Isles Bridge Nr Yosemite Ca.

Get the latest River Levels, Streamflow, and Hydrology for in River flows across 2 streamgages of the Merced River


15-Day Long Term Forecast


River Details

Last Updated 2026-04-14
Discharge Volume 3,913 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 1,973.0 cfs
Past 24 Hours: +14.0 cfs (+0.71%)
Percent of Normal 71.77%
Maximum 14,180.0 cfs
2023-05-22
Seasonal Avg cfs
       
River Streamflow Levels
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Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Merced R A Happy Isles Bridge Nr Yosemite Ca
USGS 11264500 		653 cfs 3.72 ft 0.62
Merced R A Pohono Bridge Nr Yosemite Ca
USGS 11266500 		1320 cfs 4.92 ft 0.76
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
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Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile

The river starts in the Sierra Nevada Mountains and flows into the San Joaquin Valley. The river has played an essential role in the history of the area, with Native American tribes using it for fishing and transportation. The river has also been dammed to provide hydroelectric power and water for agriculture. The New Exchequer Dam forms Lake McClure and the New Don Pedro Dam creates Lake Don Pedro, which are both important reservoirs on the river. Recreational activities such as fishing, rafting, and camping are popular along the river, particularly in the Yosemite Valley. The river also supports agricultural uses, with irrigation from the river water used to grow crops including almonds, grapes, and walnuts.