2026-04-23T20:00:00-06:00
...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.
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for this river run is between 300-700 cubic feet per second (cfs), making it an exciting Class III-IV rapids experience.
The segment mileage for this river run is approximately 8 miles, and it offers some exciting obstacles and rapids for kayakers and rafters, including Pinball, The Slide, and The Corkscrew. These rapids are notorious for their technical challenges and require experienced paddlers to navigate safely.
In addition to the rapids, the Whitewater River Run is subject to specific regulations, including a permit system for commercial outfitters and a prohibition on camping and campfires along the riverbank. This is to protect the surrounding environment, which is home to various wildlife and plant species.
Overall, the Whitewater River Run is an excellent destination for experienced kayakers and rafters seeking a challenging and exciting experience in New Mexico's beautiful wilderness. It is important to note that water levels and conditions can change rapidly, and it is always essential to check current conditions and regulations before embarking on a whitewater adventure.
Regional Streamflow Levels
15-Day Long Term Forecast
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2026-04-22 |
| River Levels | 49 cfs (5.29 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 17% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 08275500 |
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Petaca Campground
|
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Arroyo Hondo Campground
|
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Lone Juniper Campground
|
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Petaca
|
||
Orilla Verde Rec Area
|
||
Taos Junction
|
NM 570 Taos County
Lone Juniper Boat Takeout
Lone Juniper Boat Launch
Taos Junction Bridge Boat Takeout
Taos Junction Bridge Boat Launch
Serna Land Grant Boundary To Nf Boundary
Agua Caliente
Headwaters To Nf Boundary
Tierra Amarilla
Pilar/Race Course
Arroyo Hondo
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