Red Flag Warning
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.

Paddle Report

New-Mexico

Last Updated: 2026-04-22

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The Whitewater River Run FR 106 Bridge to Confluence with Rio Chama is a popular whitewater rafting destination in the state of New Mexico.

Summary

The ideal streamflow range for this segment of the river is between 500 and 1500 cubic feet per second (cfs), which typically occurs from May to July. The class rating for this segment ranges from Class II to Class III, with some rapids reaching Class IV during high water.

The total mileage for this segment of the river is approximately 13 miles, with several notable rapids and obstacles along the way. Some of the most challenging rapids include Entrada, Beaver Slides, and the Narrows. In addition, there are several large boulders and tight turns that add to the excitement of the run.

As with all whitewater rafting destinations, there are specific regulations and guidelines that must be followed in order to ensure the safety of all participants. Some of the regulations for this area include wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times while on the river, following all posted speed limits, and avoiding alcohol consumption before or during the trip.

Overall, the Whitewater River Run FR 106 Bridge to Confluence with Rio Chama is a thrilling and challenging whitewater rafting destination in New Mexico, with plenty of exciting rapids and obstacles to navigate. However, it is important to be aware of the ideal streamflow range, class rating, segment mileage, and specific regulations in order to have a safe and enjoyable trip.

Regional Streamflow Levels

Rio Chama Near Chamita 270.0cfs	270cfs
Rio Chama Below Abiquiu Dam 317.0cfs	317cfs
Rio Grande At Embudo 223.0cfs	223cfs
Rio Ojo Caliente At La Madera 15.4cfs	15cfs
Embudo Creek At Dixon 7.07cfs	7cfs
Rio Chama Above Abiquiu Reservoir 268.0cfs	268cfs

15-Day Long Term Forecast

River Run Details

Last Updated	2026-04-22
River Levels	3000 cfs (6.66 ft)
Percent of Normal	34%
Status
Class Level	ii-iii
Elevation	ft
Streamflow Discharge	cfs
Gauge Height	ft
Reporting Streamgage	USGS 08279500

Explore Interactive Map

Red Flag Warning
Until 2026-04-23T20:00:00-06:00 • National Weather Service
...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.