TOTAL DISCHARGE (CFS)
SUMMARY
Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the reporting a streamflow rate of cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Wailuku River, with a gauge stage of ft at this location. This river is monitored from 1 different streamgauging stations along the Wailuku River, the highest being situated at an altitude of ft, the .
The Wailuku River is a 12.3-mile-long river located on the island of Hawaii. The river has a rich history and is home to several cultural landmarks. The hydrology of the river is affected by the Wailuku Reservoir, which is the primary source of water for the population of Hilo. The river also has several dams, including the Pepeekeo, Waihole, and Nīnole Dams. The Wailuku River is used for both recreational and agricultural purposes. It is a popular destination for kayaking, fishing, and hiking. The river also provides irrigation for crops such as sugarcane and taro, which are important to the local economy.
YEAR OVER YEAR DISCHARGE (CFS)
Streamflow Conditions
| Streamgauge | Streamflow | Gauge Stage | 24hr Change (%) | % Normal | Minimum (cfs) | Maximum (cfs) | Air Temp | Elevation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Wailuku River At Piihonoua
USGS 16704000 |
90 cfs | 2.85 ft | 379.14 |
History of the River
The Wailuku River is a 28.0-mile-long (45.1 km) water course on the Island of Hawaiʻi in the Hawaiian Islands. It is the longest river in Hawai'i and its course lies mostly along the divide between the lava flows of Mauna Kea and those of Mauna Loa to the south. It arises at about the 10,800 feet (3,300 m) elevation along the eastern slope of Mauna Kea (19°48′26″N 155°25′13″W). It flows generally eastward, descending steeply from the mountain and entering the Pacific Ocean at Hilo.Wailuku River State Park is located along the lower reach of the river. One section of the park includes Rainbow Falls (19°43′9″N 155°6′34″W), and another section Peʻepeʻe falls and an area called the Boiling Pots (a series of small falls and pools). The upper and middle reaches of the river are known for hunting of introduced game animals. The lower river is a popular destination for swimming and tubing. However the Wailuku River (which includes Boiling Pots) accounts for 25% of the river drowning deaths in the state.
The lower reach of the river is used for the generation of hydroelectricity. The flow at Hilo averages 275 cubic feet per second (8 m³/s) with peak flows 40 times as great. Water flow is monitored by the USGS. The stream carries an average of 10 tons of suspended sediment into Hilo Bay each day, at 19°43′40″N 155°5′15″W.
The river has been the site of sewage leaks and is the subject of water quality research. Water advisories are posted online by the State of Hawaii. There is a plan for restoration of the Hilo Bay watershed that includes characterization of the Wailuku River.In the Hawaiian language, wai means fresh water and luku means destruction, so it means essentially River of Destruction. The river can rise into the trees and drop back down very fast. The high flood marks can be seen dated in concrete, on the stairs going down to the river behind the Hilo Public Library.
According to legend, the river was created in a battle between the god Maui and the lizard monster Kuna.The river is rated Class 5 white water and has been navigated by experts on kayak.
