SWEETWATER RIVER

River Levels Streamflow Hydrology
November 21, 2024

TOTAL DISCHARGE (CFS)

SUMMARY

Last Updated 2024-11-18
Discharge Volume 97 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 49.1 cfs
None cfs (None%)
Percent of Normal 67.8%
Maximum 2,720.0 cfs
2017-05-19
Seasonal Avg 72 cfs

Total streamflow across the Sweetwater River was last observed at 49 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 97 acre-ft of water today; about 68% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 72 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2017-05-19 when daily discharge volume was observed at 2,720 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Sweetwater River Near Sweetwater Station reporting a streamflow rate of 49.1 cfs. However, the streamgauge with the highest stage along the river is the Sweetwater R Nr Descanso Ca with a gauge stage of 3.65 ft. This river is monitored from 4 different streamgauging stations along the Sweetwater River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 6,593 ft, the Sweetwater River Near Sweetwater Station.

The Sweetwater River is a 55-mile long river located in San Diego County, California. Historically, it was used by the Kumeyaay people for fishing and hunting. Today, it serves as a major source of water for the county. The river's hydrology is affected by both natural factors, such as rainfall, and man-made factors, including water diversion and dam operations. Specific reservoirs and dams on the Sweetwater River include Loveland Reservoir, Sweetwater Reservoir, and Lower Sweetwater Dam. These structures are used to store water for municipal and agricultural purposes. Recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and camping are popular along the river, though access can be limited due to private property rights.

YEAR OVER YEAR DISCHARGE (CFS)

Streamflow Conditions
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Sweetwater River Near Sweetwater Station
USGS 06638090
49 cfs 1.73 ft 71.68
Sweetwater River Near Alcova
USGS 06639000
27 cfs 1.77 ft -6.23
Sweetwater R Nr Descanso Ca
USGS 11015000
0 cfs 3.65 ft 33.33
Sweetwater R A Dehesa Ca
USGS 11016200
0 cfs 2.91 ft None
History of the River

The Sweetwater River is a 55-mile (89 km) long stream in San Diego County, California.
From its headwaters high in the Cuyamaca Mountains, the river flows generally southwest, first through rugged hinterlands but then into the urban areas surrounding its mouth at San Diego Bay. Its drainage basin covers more than 230 square miles (600 km2), all of it within San Diego County. Towns on the river include Descanso, La Presa and Chula Vista.
The term "Sweetwater" is a name often given to freshwater which tastes good in regions where much of the water is bitter to the taste. The Spanish called the river "Agua Dulce", a name they applied to good clear water anywhere they lived.

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