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 stretch of river is between 500 and 1000 cubic feet per second (cfs). The class rating for this section of the river is a class III to IV, depending on the water level.
The segment mileage for this run is approximately 5 miles and features several notable rapids, including The Narrows, which is a narrow section of the river with steep drops and tight turns. Another notable rapid on this stretch of river is called Big Arsenic, which is a large, powerful rapid with large waves and strong currents.
There are specific regulations that apply to this area, including a requirement for all boaters to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) and the prohibition of alcohol on the river. Additionally, all boaters must obtain a permit before launching on this section of the river.
In summary, the Whitewater River run from Confluence With Rito De La Olla to Nf Boundary in New Mexico is a thrilling and challenging section of river for experienced whitewater enthusiasts. The ideal streamflow range, class rating, segment mileage, specific river rapids/obstacles, and specific regulations all contribute to making this run a popular destination for those looking for an exciting and adventurous experience on the water.
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 |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 08275500 |
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Las Petacas
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Las Petacas Campground
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La Sombra Campground
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Capulin
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La Sombra
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Capulin Campground
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Taos Junction Bridge Taos County
Taos Junction Bridge Boat Takeout
Taos Junction Bridge Boat Launch
Lone Juniper Boat Takeout
Lone Juniper Boat Launch
Confluence With Rito De La Olla To Nf Boundary
Headwaters To Confluence With Rito De La Olla
Headwaters To Confluence With Rio Grande Del Rancho
Serna Land Grant Boundary To Nf Boundary
Rio Pueblo De Taos
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