WENATCHEE RIVER

River Levels Streamflow Hydrology
November 21, 2024

TOTAL DISCHARGE (CFS)

SUMMARY

Last Updated 2024-11-19
Discharge Volume 7,736 ACRE-FT
Streamflow 3,900.0 cfs
+80.0 cfs (+2.09%)
Percent of Normal 69.82%
Maximum 51,900.0 cfs
2017-05-31
Seasonal Avg 5,586 cfs

Total streamflow across the Wenatchee River was last observed at 3,900 cfs, and is expected to yield approximately 7,736 acre-ft of water today; about 70% of normal. River levels are low and may signify a drought. Average streamflow for this time of year is 5,586 cfs, with recent peaks last observed on 2017-05-31 when daily discharge volume was observed at 51,900 cfs.

Maximum discharge along the river is currently at the Wenatchee River At Monitor reporting a streamflow rate of 1,460 cfs. This is also the highest stage along the Wenatchee River, with a gauge stage of 17.92 ft at this location. This river is monitored from 3 different streamgauging stations along the Wenatchee River, the highest being situated at an altitude of 1,810 ft, the Wenatchee River At Plain.

The Wenatchee River is a 90-mile long river in Washington State, USA. It flows through the Cascade Range and into the Columbia River. Historically, the river was used by Native American tribes for fishing and hunting, and later by settlers for irrigation and transportation. The river is fed by snowmelt and rain and is known for its whitewater rapids, making it a popular destination for rafting and kayaking enthusiasts. The river is also used for agricultural irrigation and hydroelectric power generation, with several dams and reservoirs along its course, including the Lake Wenatchee Dam, Tumwater Dam, and Rock Island Dam. The river supports a diverse range of fish species, including salmon and steelhead, and is an important habitat for wildlife.

YEAR OVER YEAR DISCHARGE (CFS)

Streamflow Conditions
Streamgauge Streamflow Gauge Stage 24hr Change (%) % Normal Minimum (cfs) Maximum (cfs) Air Temp Elevation
Wenatchee River At Plain
USGS 12457000
1100 cfs 2.76 ft -6.78
Wenatchee River At Peshastin
USGS 12459000
1340 cfs 2.94 ft 5.51
Wenatchee River At Monitor
USGS 12462500
1460 cfs 17.92 ft 6.57
History of the River

The Wenatchee River is a river in the U.S. state of Washington, originating at Lake Wenatchee and flowing southeast for 53 miles (85 km), emptying into the Columbia River immediately north of Wenatchee, Washington. On its way it passes the towns of Plain, Leavenworth, Peshastin, Dryden, Cashmere, Monitor, and Wenatchee, all within Chelan County. The river attracts kayaking and river rafting enthusiasts and tourism.
Tributaries include the Chiwawa River, Nason Creek, Peshastin Creek, and Icicle Creek. Its drainage basin is 1,333 square miles (3,450 km2) in area.

Weather Forecast



16-Day Long Term Forecast
       

Get Unparalelled Insights

Explore the Map

Whether you're planning your next ski trip or tracking stream flows for an upcoming rafting expedition, our map offers instant access to essential conditions, forecasts, and trends.

Watershed River Levels

236

Cubic Feet Per Second

0

Cubic Feet Per Second

472

Cubic Feet Per Second

81

Cubic Feet Per Second