Sacramento Basin Streamflow

Page Note

This page tracks real-time streamflow conditions across the Sacramento River basin using two strategically positioned, basin-representative U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) gauges. Both gauges measure daily mean discharge in cubic feet per second (cfs), providing a continuous record of water movement through the river system.

Gauges:

• Sacramento River at Verona (downstream) – Positioned near the northern Sacramento Valley, capturing flows before the river exits into the Delta system
• Sacramento River at Bend Bridge (upstream) – Located in the upper Sacramento Valley, capturing flows before major tributary inputs and valley dispersal

Current Status (as of July 7, 2026): Both gauges show moderate flows typical of early summer conditions, with Verona running ~2,100 cfs higher than Bend Bridge due to tributary inflows (principally the Feather River) between the two measurement points. The 364-365 point series span represents ~1 year of continuous daily observations, enabling seasonal trend analysis and year-over-year comparison.

Use: Monitor reservoir operations, assess drought/flood risk, plan water deliveries, and track climate-driven shifts in snowmelt and precipitation timing. Flows below ~10,000 cfs (Verona) signal stress periods; above 30,000 cfs indicate flood-management concern.