Fire Weather Watch
2026-03-14T20:00:00-06:00

...RED FLAG WARNING SATURDAY FROM NOON UNTIL MIDNIGHT FOR THE NORTHEAST HIGHLANDS, NORTHEAST PLAINS, AND CENTRAL HIGHLANDS DUE TO STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY... ...FIRE WEATHER WATCH SATURDAY FROM 3 PM UNTIL 8 PM FOR WESTERN NM, NORTH CENTRAL NM AND THE SANDIA AND MANZANO MOUNTAINS DUE TO STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY... ...FIRE WEATHER WATCH SUNDAY FOR ALL OF NORTHERN AND CENTRAL NM FROM 9 AM THROUGH 8 PM DUE TO STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY... .Critical fire weather conditions will impact much of central and northern NM through the weekend. On Saturday, westerly winds will increase areawide, but will start earlier and linger longer across eastern NM. Therefore, long duration critical fire weather conditions are expected across much of eastern NM on Saturday, while a more focused period of critical fire weather conditions are possible from mid afternoon through early evening elsewhere. Very strong to damaging winds will develop early on Sunday and persist through the afternoon as both a Pacific and backdoor cold front press through the area. With gusts between 50 and 70 mph and single digit humidity values in many areas, critical to extreme fire weather conditions are likely despite cooling temperatures. * AREA AND TIMING...Northwest Plateau (Zone 101), West Central Mountains (Zone 105), West Central Basin and Range (Zone 109), North Central Mountains (Zone 120), Upper Rio Grande Valley and Lower Chama River Valley (Zone 121), Sangre de Cristo Mountains (Zone 122), and Sandia and Manzano Mountains (Zone 124) on Saturday from 3 PM until 8 PM and again Sunday from 9 AM through 8 PM. * 20 FOOT WINDS...On Saturday, west winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. The strongest winds will be during the evening. On Sunday, northwest winds 25 to 40 mph with gusts between 45 and 55 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...Minimum values between 6 and 15 percent with locally higher values across the peaks of the Tusas Mountains and Sangre de Cristo Mountains each day. * IMPACTS...Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.


Headwaters To Confluence With San Leonardo Paddle Report

Last Updated: 2026-03-11

The Whitewater River run from Headwaters to Confluence with San Leonardo in the state of New Mexico is a popular destination for paddling enthusiasts.


Summary

The ideal streamflow range for this river run is between 200 and 600 cubic feet per second (cfs), making it perfect for intermediate to advanced paddlers. The segment mileage for this run is approximately 12 miles, providing ample opportunities for adventure and excitement.

The class rating for the Whitewater River run ranges from II to IV, with occasional class V rapids in certain conditions. The river features several challenging rapids and obstacles, including the "Box," which is a narrow and steep canyon with several technical drops and tight turns. Other notable rapids include "Tropical Depression," "Piranha," and "Carnage."

There are certain regulations that paddlers need to follow when visiting the Whitewater River run. For instance, it is mandatory to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times while on the river. Additionally, visitors must obtain a permit from the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) before accessing the river.

In conclusion, the Whitewater River run from Headwaters to Confluence with San Leonardo in New Mexico is an exciting and challenging destination for whitewater enthusiasts. With its ideal streamflow range, class rating, and variety of rapids and obstacles, this river run offers a truly unforgettable experience. However, it is essential to follow the regulations and safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.



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15-Day Weather Outlook


River Run Details

Last Updated 2026-03-11
River Levels 1420 cfs (5.77 ft)
Percent of Normal 66%
Status
Class Level v
Elevation ft
Streamflow Discharge cfs
Gauge Height ft
Reporting Streamgage USGS 08290000
       

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail