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Norton Slough

California · River

Cool water — ease in carefully

Use caution

As of August 22, 2026, the water temperature at Norton Slough is 69°F (21°C), measured by USGS gauge 11463980, 1.2 miles away.

Cool water — ease in carefully: water temperature is 69°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry.

  • Water temperature is 69°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. — USGS gauge 11463980, as of Aug 22, 10:15 AM gauge-local time
  • No official beach advisory posted (California Water Boards — FHAB Reports checked).
  • Flow is below the 25th percentile for Aug 22 (median 150 ft³/s over 38 years). — USGS daily streamflow statistics, as of Aug 22, 10:15 AM gauge-local time
Water temp
69°F
21°C
Streamflow
102 ft³/s
discharge
Gage height
5.89 ft
water level

Flow is low for this date — below the 25th percentile for Aug 22 (median 150 ft³/s over 38 years).

Official advisories

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

Live, provisional data from USGS gauge RUSSIAN R A DIGGER BEND NR HEALDSBURG CA (1.2 mi away), as of Aug 22, 10:15 AM gauge-local time.

Live map near here →

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.
See full details, photos & weather →

Read next

SafetyHow to Read Water: Currents, Tides, and HazardsActivitiesRiver Rafting for Beginners: Classes, Gear, and What to ExpectGuidesHow to Find Safe Swimming Holes: A Complete Guide

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.