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Can you swim here today?

Phantom Falls

California · Waterfall

Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today

Cold water

As of October 29, 2026, the water temperature at Phantom Falls is 50°F (10°C), measured by USGS gauge 11390000, 11.2 miles away.

Cold water — serious cold-shock risk today: water temperature is 50°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion.

  • Water temperature is 50°F, cold enough to cause cold-water shock on sudden immersion. — USGS gauge 11390000, as of Oct 29, 2:00 AM gauge-local time
  • Flow is within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Oct 29 (median 125 ft³/s over 96 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Oct 29, 2:00 AM gauge-local time
  • No official beach advisory posted (California Water Boards — FHAB Reports checked).
Water temp
50°F
10°C
Streamflow
108 ft³/s
discharge
Gage height
0.59 ft
water level

Flow is normal for this date — within the normal range (25th–75th percentile) for Oct 29 (median 125 ft³/s over 96 years).

Official advisories

Checked against California Water Boards — FHAB Reports — no advisory posted.

Live, provisional data from USGS gauge BUTTE C NR CHICO CA (11.2 mi away), as of Oct 29, 2:00 AM gauge-local time.

Before you get in

  • Never swim alone — and keep weaker swimmers within arm's reach.
  • Scout depth and entry/exit points before you get in.
  • Read the current: avoid fast, rising, or murky water.
  • Check the forecast — get out well before storms or lightning.
  • Obey posted signs, flags, and lifeguard guidance.

Read next

Conditions are for general information only and can change quickly. Always judge the water in person and follow posted advisories and local guidance before swimming or paddling.