Yuba River Conditions

Information below was updated on 03/28/2023

*Notice: Anticipated flows are always preliminary and are provided for informational purposes only. Flows are subject to real-time changes in weather and runoff conditions, and operations related to hydroelectric generation, flood control, and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission license requirements. This data is not intended to be used for flood forecasting. Storm runoff can produce extremely cold and variable flow releases below Englebright Reservoir. Flows can range from the minimum flow requirement to thousands or tens of thousands cubic feet per second and can change rapidly. Be prepared for sudden flow changes when recreating on the lower Yuba River or avoid the river altogether for your safety. Additional information can be viewed on the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s California Nevada River Forecast Center website. 

Short-term Forecast

The Lower Yuba River Accord schedule is at a 1A, with a minimum required average flow at the Marysville gage of 700 CFS. Currently, the flow at the Smartsville gage is running an average of 4,600 CFS. This flow is forecast to slightly increase this week with the storm activity that is forecast. Please be reminded, flows can change swiftly and suddenly, so be prepared when recreating on the lower Yuba River or avoid entering the river altogether for your safety.

Long-term Forecast

Yuba Water Agency's minimum flow requirements are set by the Lower Yuba River Accord, which is tied to the California Department of Water Resources' Bulletin 120 (B-120). The Accord schedule is currently a level 1A, with a required flow at the Marysville gage of 700 CFS until April 1, 2023, when the required flow will increase to 1,000 CFS. Remember that flows can change swiftly and suddenly, so be prepared when recreating on the lower Yuba River or avoid the river for your safety.