UPDATE: May 22, 2023Flows from Folsom Lake into the American River have increased to 15,000 cubic feet per second. Please continue to stay off the American River until it is safe to do so.
5/18/2023 Update
It's going to be a warm weekend and we know residents are eager to head to the river, but snowmelt continues to cause the American River to run faster and colder than we are used to, so
Sacramento County Regional Parks is advising residents to find other ways to beat the heat.
“The American River is flowing very fast this weekend, and we want residents to be aware of just how dangerous it can be," said Liz Bellas, Director of Regional Parks. “The flows are so swift that the rafting companies along the river aren't renting out equipment this weekend – it's just too dangerous."
Flows out of Nimbus Dam into the American River this weekend will be around 12,000 cubic feet per second (cfs), which is six times higher than we typically see during the summer. The water is flowing so fast and high that Regional Parks has closed the river access at Howe Ave and the fishing dock at William B. Pond Park due to flooding.
Water temperatures are also colder than normal so far this summer. The river is currently running at 55 degrees. Typically at this point in the recreation season, water temperature is at least 60 degrees.
Swift flows and cold water are a recipe for disaster. Remember, Life Looks Good On You, so don't lose it on the river. For your safety, please stay off the river this weekend. For more water safety tips, visit LifeLooksGoodOnYou.org.
