San Lorenzo River (CA) at Big Trees
Santa Cruz County, California
The past week
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What floods at each level
- 21.76 ft
Major Flooding. At approximately 21.76 feet discharge in the San Lorenzo River is approximately 15,000 cfs. Major flooding in the Felton Grove neighborhood occurs at this stage, with roadways several feet deep and waters inundating the approaches to the Felton Covered Bridge. Felton Covered Bridge Park begins to experience widespread flooding at shallow depths. At 15,000 cfs, the City of Santa Cruz downstream will experience more serious flooding. The flood wave may take 2-3 hours to reach Santa Cruz.
- 19.5 ft
Moderate Flooding. The St. Bernard Street area in Paradise Park is under several feet of water, with below grade floodplain infrastructure several feet deeper. St. Augustine Avenue neighborhood in Paradise Park begins to flood. Flooding imminent or already occurring in the Felton Grove neighborhood. Ground stories, first floors, and garages flooded. Felton Covered Bridge Park begins to flood.
- 16.5 ft
Minor Flooding. Flooding is either imminent or already occurring in Paradise Park, with initial flooding in the St. Bernard Street area.
- 14 ft
Action Stage. Stage can rise rapidly on the San Lorenzo River, up to several feet per hour. Approximately 2.5 feet below flood levels in Paradise Park and approximately 5.5 feet below flood stage in Felton Grove.
Highest crests on record
| Date | Level | Flow |
|---|---|---|
| Jan 4, 1982 | 28.85 ft | 29,700 cfs |
| Jan 9, 2023 | 24.54 ft | 20,500 cfs |
| Feb 7, 2017 | 24.1 ft | 19,000 cfs |
More on San Lorenzo River (CA)
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