2026-01-25T08:00:00-07:00
* WHAT...Heavy snow. Total snow accumulations between 4 and 8 inches across much of eastern New Mexico with higher amounts of 8 to 16 inches above 9,000 feet. Localized areas in eastern Torrance, Guadalupe, and De Baca counties will receive between 8 and 10 inches. Bitterly cold temperatures will accompany the snow. * WHERE...Much of central to east central New Mexico, including Interstate 40 from Tijeras to Santa Rosa to the Texas border. * WHEN...Until 8 AM MST Sunday. * IMPACTS...Travel will become very difficult to impossible for an extended period of time, most notably along I-40 from Tijeras Canyon to the Texas border. The weight of accumulating snow will stress the power grid, potentially creating outages. An extended period of cold temperatures will increase the risk of frostbite and hypothermia. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS...Bitterly cold temperatures will also accompany this winter storm, with the coldest temperatures in the eastern plains of New Mexico. Temperatures will be coldest Sunday and Monday mornings when much of the eastern half of New Mexico will be in the single digits with wind chills below zero.
Summary
The ideal streamflow range for this section of the river is between 150 and 500 cubic feet per second (cfs). The river is rated as a Class III to IV, suitable for intermediate to advanced paddlers. The segment mileage from Headwaters to Costilla Creek is approximately 10 miles.
One of the most notable rapids on this section of the river is the "Box," which is a narrow and technical rapid that requires precise maneuvering. Other rapids include "Slaughterhouse," "Elephant Butte," and "Toilet Bowl." There are also a few small waterfalls and rock gardens that add to the excitement of the run.
There are specific regulations that apply to the Whitewater River Run. All boaters must have a valid New Mexico boater registration or permit, and all vessels must be equipped with a personal flotation device (PFD) for each person on board. Additionally, there are restrictions on the use of alcohol and drugs while on the river.
In summary, the Whitewater River Run from Headwaters to Costilla Creek is a challenging and thrilling journey for experienced paddlers. With a range of rapids and obstacles, this section of the river is sure to provide an exciting adventure for those who dare to take it on. It is important to adhere to the specific regulations and safety guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the water.
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-11-21 |
| River Levels | 43 cfs (2.0 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 113% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 08254000 |
Hourly Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Little Costilla Camp
|
||
Little Costilla Low Impact Camp
|
||
Ash Mountain Camp
|
||
Cimarron Campground
|
||
NFS Cimarron Campground
|
||
Middle Ponil Camp
|
Headwaters To Costilla Creek
Headwaters To Comanche Point
Nf Boundary To Nf Boundary
Headwaters To Comanche Creek
Headwaters To Nf Boundary