...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.
The segment from Headwaters to Comanche Point is a popular run, covering a distance of approximately 12 miles and offering Class III to IV+ rapids.
The ideal streamflow range for this segment of the Whitewater River is between 300-600 cubic feet per second (cfs). This flow level ensures that the rapids are challenging but still navigable. Flow levels above this range can create dangerous conditions, while lower flow levels may make the rapids less exciting.
The Class rating of this segment ranges from Class III to IV+. Class III rapids are characterized by moderately difficult water with moderate waves and obstacles, while Class IV rapids are challenging with large waves, powerful currents, and potentially hazardous obstacles.
Several notable rapids and obstacles are present along this segment of the river, including the "Squeeze," "Rockslide," and "Tres Rios." These rapids offer a thrilling experience for experienced whitewater paddlers.
When it comes to regulations, the Whitewater River is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and requires a permit for all commercial outfitters. Additionally, paddlers should be aware of potential hazards such as low head dams, strainers, and other obstacles. Proper safety equipment and training are essential for a safe and enjoyable trip.
In conclusion, the Headwaters to Comanche Point segment of the Whitewater River is a challenging and exciting run for experienced whitewater paddlers. The ideal streamflow range, Class III to IV+ rapids, and specific hazards and regulations make it a unique and thrilling experience.
Wind
Humidity
| Last Updated | 2025-11-21 |
| River Levels | 43 cfs (2.0 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 113% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 08254000 |
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Little Costilla Camp
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Little Costilla Low Impact Camp
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Ash Mountain Camp
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Cimarron Campground
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NFS Cimarron Campground
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Middle Ponil Camp
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