...RED FLAG WARNING TODAY FROM 9 AM TO 8 PM MDT FOR THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY, WEST CENTRAL BASIN AND RANGE, AND ALONG AND EAST OF THE CENTRAL MOUNTAIN CHAIN DUE TO STRONG WIND AND LOW HUMIDITY... .Strong west winds aloft and a surface trough in the lee of the southern Rockies will produce strong winds today. West and northwest wind gusts will peak between 40 and 55 mph with the strongest gusts in the Central Highlands. Humidity will also plummet mostly into the single digits this afternoon. Outside of the warned area, locally critical fire weather conditions are likely today as far west as the continental divide. * AREA AND TIMING...Today from 9 AM to 8 PM MDT for the Northeast and East Central Plains (Zones 104 and 126); Northeast and Central Highlands (Zones 123 and 125); Sandia, Manzano, and Sangre de Cristo Mountains (Zones 122 and 124); West Central Basin and Range (Zone 109); Middle and Upper Rio Grande Valley, and Lower Chama River Valley (Zones 106 and 121). * 20 FOOT WINDS...West and northwest winds 20 to 35 mph, with gusts peaking between 40 and 55 mph. Strongest gusts will occur in and near the Central Highlands. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...Minimum values of 6 to 15 percent. * IMPACTS...Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.
The ideal streamflow range for this run is between 200 and 500 cubic feet per second (cfs), which typically occurs in the spring and early summer months. The segment mileage for this run is 7.5 miles, which includes several challenging rapids and obstacles.
The class rating for this run is Class III, which means the rapids are moderately difficult with moderate waves and obstacles. The rapids in this section of the river include The Gauntlet, Screaming Left, and Jaws. These rapids provide a thrilling challenge for experienced kayakers, but can be dangerous for those without proper training and equipment.
There are specific regulations that apply to this area, including a permit requirement from the Bureau of Land Management and a mandatory self-rescue clause. The self-rescue clause requires all kayakers to have the ability to pull themselves out of the river without assistance, as the remote location of the run can make it difficult for rescue teams to reach in case of emergency.
Overall, the Whitewater River run Confluence with San Leonardo to NF Boundary is a challenging and exciting destination for experienced kayakers looking for a thrilling adventure. However, it is important to follow all regulations and safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the river.
| Last Updated | 2026-04-22 |
| River Levels | 133 cfs (4.02 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 18% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 08277470 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Trampas Diamante Campground
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Trampas Medio Campground
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Hodges
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Trampas Campground
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Borrego Mesa Campground
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Borrego Mesa
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