SNOFLO



ANIMAS RIVER

RIVER RUNS
2024-04-11


Hydrologic Outlook
None

ESFGJT Risk of areal flooding and elevated stream flows from rapid snowmelt ...OVERVIEW... Mid to high elevations (8500' to 10000') along the San Juan Mountains and along the Divide through central Colorado are susceptible to enhanced runoff and elevated stream flows from rapid snowmelt. ...TEMPERATURE... High temperatures will continue to run 5 to 10 degrees above normal through the weekend, with overnight lows remaining above freezing for mid to high elevations. This warming trend carries into Monday, resulting in highs climbing 10 to 15 degrees above normal. Said departure from normal increases from south to north. ...PRECIPITATION... Isolated to scattered showers and storms developing each afternoon favor high terrain across the southwest San Juans and along the spine of the Divide. Due to warming conditions, precipitation in the form of rain is possible as high as 10000'. Although anticipated storm totals are low, generally 0.1" to 0.2", rain-on-snow could enhance the rate of snowmelt. ...STREAMFLOW CONDITIONS AND RUNOFF FORECASTS... Streams and rivers in the area will see elevated flows of dangerously cold water over the next several days. Low-lying areas across mountainous terrain (8500' to 10000') could see some minor inundation from snowmelt. Stay away from fast moving water and exercise caution near riverbanks and streams. Updated weather and water products and forecasts are available from the NWS Grand Junction's website at: Www.weather.gov/gjt


58°F

Today

31°F

Tonight

2mph

Windspeed

56%

Humidity

The Animas River is a popular destination for whitewater rafting in Colorado. The ideal streamflow range for the Animas River is between 1,500 and 4,000 cubic feet per second (cfs). The river is rated as Class III-IV, which means it features moderate to difficult rapids with sizable waves. The river has several segments for rafting, with the most popular being the Durango to Silverton segment, which is around 26 miles long.

The river features several notable rapids, including Smelter, Santa Rita, and Pinball, each with their own unique challenges. The Smelter rapid is a Class III drop with large waves, while the Santa Rita rapid is a Class IV rapid with a steep drop and narrow channel. The Pinball rapid is a Class III rapid with many boulders and rocks creating a challenging obstacle course for rafters.

There are specific regulations to the area, including a ban on alcohol and glass containers, and a requirement for all boaters to wear personal flotation devices. Rafting companies also have specific regulations they must follow, including permits and safety protocols.

Last Updated 2024-04-11
River Levels 1200 cfs (4.15 ft)
Percent of Normal 55%
Status
Class Level iii-iv
Elevation ft
Streamflow Discharge cfs
Gauge Height ft
Reporting Streamgage USGS 09359020
       

Weather Forecast

Created with Highcharts 8.0.0humidity0.12"0.12"0.23"0.23"1.13"1.13"0.7"0.7"0.06"0.06"0.06"0.06"Sun May 11Mon May 12Tue May 13Wed May 14Thu May 1532°64°96°0%60%120%180%