METHOW RIVER

River Levels Streamflow Hydrology
November 21, 2024

TOTAL DISCHARGE (CFS)

SUMMARY

Last Updated 2024-11-20
Discharge Volume 1,183 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 596.4 cfs
-289.83 cfs (-32.7%)
Percent of Normal 28.0%
Maximum 64,920.0 cfs
2023-05-06
Seasonal Avg 2,130 cfs

Total streamflow across the Methow River was last observed at 596 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 1,183 acre-ft of water today; about 28% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 2,130 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2023-05-06 when daily discharge volume was observed at 64,920 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Methow River Near Pateros reporting a streamflow rate of 346 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Methow River Above Goat Creek Near Mazama with a gauge stage of 12.7 ft. This river is monitored from 4 different streamgauging stations along the Methow River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 2,053 ft, the Methow River Above Goat Creek Near Mazama.

The Methow River is a tributary of the Columbia River and runs for approximately 80 miles through Washington State. The river was used by the Native American tribes for fishing and irrigation, and later by settlers for agriculture and mining. Today, the river is used primarily for recreational purposes such as fishing, kayaking, and rafting. The river is fed by snowmelt and has a hydrology that varies throughout the year. There are two major dams on the Methow River, the Methow Dam and the Alta Dam, which provide hydroelectric power to the region. The river is also important for agriculture, with farmers using water from the river to irrigate their crops. Overall, the Methow River is an important natural resource for the region, providing both recreational opportunities and essential water resources for agriculture.

YEAR OVER YEAR DISCHARGE (CFS)

Streamflow Conditions
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Methow River Above Goat Creek Near Mazama
USGS 12447383
19 cfs 12.7 ft 168.33
Methow River At Winthrop
USGS 12448500
236 cfs 9.92 ft 5.36
Methow River At Twisp
USGS 12449500
341 cfs 0.04 ft 10.36
Methow River Near Pateros
USGS 12449950
346 cfs 1.72 ft -1.14
History of the River

The Methow River ( MET-how) is a tributary of the Columbia River in northern Washington in the United States. The river's 1,890-square-mile (4,900 km2) watershed drains the eastern North Cascades, with a population of about 5,000 people. The Methow's watershed is characterized by relatively pristine habitats, as much of the river basin is located in national forests and wildernesses. Many tributaries drain the large Pasayten Wilderness. An earlier economy based on agriculture is giving way to one based on recreation and tourism.

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Watershed River Levels

236

Cubic Feet Per Second

65

Cubic Feet Per Second

341

Cubic Feet Per Second

81

Cubic Feet Per Second