Skagit River River Levels

Total streamflow across the Skagit River was last observed at 24,300 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 48,198 acre-ft of water today; about 58% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 42,167 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2021-11-16 when daily discharge volume was observed at 283,900 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Skagit River Near Mount Vernon reporting a streamflow rate of 8,800 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Skagit River At Newhalem with a gauge stage of 83.77 ft. This river is monitored from 4 different streamgauging stations along the Skagit River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 492 ft, the Skagit River At Newhalem.

It has a rich history dating back to the indigenous people who resided in the area and relied on the river for sustenance. The river's hydrology is characterized by glacial meltwater from the surrounding mountains, resulting in high flow rates in the spring and low flow rates in the summer. The Skagit River supports various recreational activities such as fishing, kayaking, and rafting. The river also plays a crucial role in the region's agriculture, providing irrigation water for crops such as potatoes, berries, and tulips. The Skagit River is home to several reservoirs and dams, including the Ross, Diablo, and Gorge dams, which provide hydroelectric power and regulate river flows for irrigation and flood control purposes.