Salt River Basin



Observed streamflow was much above median in the Salt River Basin during the 1998 runoff season. The January through May streamflow was 145% of median on the Salt River, 250% of median on Tonto Creek, and 220% of median on the Verde River.

Snow water equivalent was much above median (180%) on January 1 but dropped to near median (110%) by February 1. This drop was reflected in the February forecasts. The remainder of the season had much above median precipitation. The October through April seasonal precipitation total was 160% of median.

The forecasts for streamflow volumes were generally good. The Salt River and Tonto Creek forecasts were too high in January and too low in February but fairly accurate in March and April. The Verde River forecasts were all too low. Observed streamflow volumes were all within the forecast 10% and 90% exceedance values.