* WHAT...Heavy snow. Total snow accumulations between 4 and 8 inches across much of eastern New Mexico with higher amounts of 8 to 16 inches above 9,000 feet. Localized areas in eastern Torrance, Guadalupe, and De Baca counties will receive between 8 and 10 inches. Bitterly cold temperatures will accompany the snow. * WHERE...Much of central to east central New Mexico, including Interstate 40 from Tijeras to Santa Rosa to the Texas border. * WHEN...Until 8 AM MST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Travel will become very difficult to impossible for an extended period of time, most notably along I-40 from Tijeras Canyon to the Texas border. The weight of accumulating snow will stress the power grid, potentially creating outages. An extended period of cold temperatures will increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Bitterly cold temperatures will also accompany this winter storm, with the coldest temperatures in the eastern plains of New Mexico. Temperatures will be coldest Sunday and Monday mornings when much of the eastern half of New Mexico will be in the single digits with wind chills below zero.
The Headwaters to Private Land Boundary section of the river is rated as a Class III to IV, which is considered advanced. It spans a distance of 10 miles, with an ideal streamflow range of 800 to 1,200 cubic feet per second (cfs). This section of the river features rapids such as Hells Hole, the Narrows, and the Meatgrinder. It also has several obstacles, including rocks and boulders, which require skilled navigation.
There are specific regulations in place for the Whitewater River, including the use of personal flotation devices for all participants and the prohibition of alcohol use. Additionally, permits are required for commercial outfitters operating on the river. It is important for visitors to respect these regulations to ensure the safety of all participants and protect the natural environment.
According to the American Whitewater Association, the best time to visit the Whitewater River is during the spring months when snowmelt and precipitation increase the streamflow. However, it is important to monitor the streamflow levels and weather conditions before planning a trip to this section of the river. Visitors should also be aware of the potential risks associated with whitewater rafting and kayaking and should have the necessary skills and experience to navigate the challenging rapids.
| Last Updated | 2026-01-22 |
| River Levels | 816 cfs (3.9 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 170% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 08284100 |
Conejos River Near Mogote
|
98cfs |
Rio Chama Near La Puente
|
181cfs |
Rio Ojo Caliente At La Madera
|
14cfs |
Rio Grande Near Cerro
|
229cfs |
Rio Chama Below El Vado Dam
|
94cfs |
Red River Below Fish Hatchery
|
40cfs |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Hopewell Lake Campground
|
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Hopewell Lake
|
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Lagunitas
|
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Upper Lagunitas / Lower Lagunitas Campgrounds
|
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Laguna Larga
|
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Lower Lagunitas
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