SACRAMENTO January 13, 2017 – The Department of Water Resources (DWR) is increasing flows to the Feather River in hourly increments between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. today. Total Lake Oroville outflow will increase from 13,300 cubic feet per second (cfs) to 20,000 cfs. Flow will be routed through Hyatt Powerplant and also through the Oroville Dam Spillway. Spillway flows will reach 10,000 cfs.
Anglers, swimmers, boaters, and other river users are advised to be aware of the increased flows, as the river will become deeper and swifter.
Flow in the Feather River Low Flow Channel (from the Thermalito Diversion Dam, through Oroville, to the Thermalito Afterbay River Outlet) will increase from 5,300 cfs to 12,000 cfs, resulting in a river rise of approximately two to four feet depending on the channel geometry at any given location.
Flow in the Feather River High Flow Channel (below the Thermalito Afterbay River Outlet) will increase from 13,300 cfs to 20,000 cfs, resulting in a river rise of approximately one to three feet depending on the location.
The increases are necessary to comply with flood control criteria for Lake Oroville. Outflows are expected to remain at these levels at least through Tuesday. Updates will be provided if any changes occur.
Lake conditions, including lake levels, inflows, and outflows can be obtained via a recorded message at 530-534-2307.