SHASTA RIVER

Last Updated: December 18, 2025

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


Summary

Total streamflow across the Shasta River was last observed at 352 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 698 acre-ft of water today; about 114% of normal. Average streamflow for this time of year is 310 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2025-02-05 when daily discharge volume was observed at 3,307 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Shasta R Nr Yreka Ca reporting a streamflow rate of 181 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Shasta River, with a gauge stage of 3.54 ft at this location. This river is monitored from 2 different streamgauging stations along the Shasta River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 2,462 ft, the Shasta R Nr Montague Ca.

River Details

Last Updated 2025-12-17
Discharge Volume 698 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 352.0 cfs
+14.0 cfs (+4.14%)
Percent of Normal 113.73%
Maximum 3,307.0 cfs
2025-02-05
Seasonal Avg cfs
       
River Streamflow Levels
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Shasta R Nr Montague Ca
USGS 11517000
171 cfs 2.18 ft 6.88
Shasta R Nr Yreka Ca
USGS 11517500
181 cfs 3.54 ft 1.69
Seasonal Discharge Comparison
Maximum Streamflow Discharge
Streamflow Elevation Profile

The river has a long history, as it was used by indigenous people for fishing, hunting, and gathering. In the 1850s, gold mining brought settlers to the area, and agriculture developed in the late 1800s. The river has two main reservoirs, the Dwinnell and the Shasta Reservoirs, which are used for irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation. The Shasta River also provides habitat for various fish species, including Chinook salmon and steelhead trout. Recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and camping are popular along the river, and agriculture remains an important part of the local economy. However, the river has faced challenges such as declining fish populations and water scarcity due to drought and increased demand for irrigation.