Fire Weather Watch
2026-03-14T20:00:00-06:00

...RED FLAG WARNING SATURDAY FROM NOON UNTIL MIDNIGHT FOR THE NORTHEAST HIGHLANDS, NORTHEAST PLAINS, AND CENTRAL HIGHLANDS DUE TO STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY... ...FIRE WEATHER WATCH SATURDAY FROM 3 PM UNTIL 8 PM FOR WESTERN NM, NORTH CENTRAL NM AND THE SANDIA AND MANZANO MOUNTAINS DUE TO STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY... ...FIRE WEATHER WATCH SUNDAY FOR ALL OF NORTHERN AND CENTRAL NM FROM 9 AM THROUGH 8 PM DUE TO STRONG WINDS AND LOW HUMIDITY... .Critical fire weather conditions will impact much of central and northern NM through the weekend. On Saturday, westerly winds will increase areawide, but will start earlier and linger longer across eastern NM. Therefore, long duration critical fire weather conditions are expected across much of eastern NM on Saturday, while a more focused period of critical fire weather conditions are possible from mid afternoon through early evening elsewhere. Very strong to damaging winds will develop early on Sunday and persist through the afternoon as both a Pacific and backdoor cold front press through the area. With gusts between 50 and 70 mph and single digit humidity values in many areas, critical to extreme fire weather conditions are likely despite cooling temperatures. * AREA AND TIMING...Northwest Plateau (Zone 101), West Central Mountains (Zone 105), West Central Basin and Range (Zone 109), North Central Mountains (Zone 120), Upper Rio Grande Valley and Lower Chama River Valley (Zone 121), Sangre de Cristo Mountains (Zone 122), and Sandia and Manzano Mountains (Zone 124) on Saturday from 3 PM until 8 PM and again Sunday from 9 AM through 8 PM. * 20 FOOT WINDS...On Saturday, west winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 40 mph. The strongest winds will be during the evening. On Sunday, northwest winds 25 to 40 mph with gusts between 45 and 55 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...Minimum values between 6 and 15 percent with locally higher values across the peaks of the Tusas Mountains and Sangre de Cristo Mountains each day. * IMPACTS...Any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.


Headwaters To Nf Boundary Paddle Report

Last Updated: 2026-03-11

The Whitewater River Run Headwaters to NF Boundary in New Mexico is a thrilling and challenging adventure for experienced rafters.


Summary

The ideal streamflow range for this segment is between 200 and 500 cubic feet per second (cfs). The class rating of the river varies between II and IV, with some sections reaching class V during high water levels. The segment mileage is approximately 14 miles, allowing for a half-day or full-day trip.

The specific river rapids and obstacles on this section include the "Pinball" rapid, which features a series of large boulders and creates challenging navigation. Other notable rapids include "The Slot," "The Gauntlet," and "The Souse Hole." These rapids are intense and require expert-level skills to navigate safely.

Specific regulations in the area include obtaining a permit from the Gila National Forest, as this section of the river runs through designated wilderness areas. Additionally, all visitors must adhere to Leave No Trace principles and pack out all trash and waste. Rafters are also required to wear personal flotation devices at all times while on the river.

Overall, the Whitewater River Run Headwaters to NF Boundary is a challenging and exciting adventure for experienced rafters. It is important to note that this section of the river is not recommended for beginners or inexperienced rafters. Safety should be a top priority, and all visitors should be prepared with proper equipment and skills to handle the challenges of this demanding river run.



°F

°F

mph

Wind

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Humidity


15-Day Weather Outlook


River Run Details

Last Updated 2026-03-11
River Levels 49 cfs (5.29 ft)
Percent of Normal 92%
Status
Class Level v
Elevation ft
Streamflow Discharge cfs
Gauge Height ft
Reporting Streamgage USGS 08275500
       

5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail