2026-03-15T18:00:00-06:00
...CRITICAL FIRE CONDITIONS SATURDAY AND SUNDAY ACROSS SOUTHWEST, SOUTH CENTRAL NEW MEXICO AND FAR WEST TEXAS... High pressure nudging in from the west is causing temperatures to be well above seasonal averages, and relative humidity to be critically low this weekend. Daily highs Saturday and Sunday will average over 10 degrees above normal, as relative humidity values drops into the low teens and single-digits both days, with very poor overnight recovery. A two-day trough passage to our north will add increased winds mid afternoon on Saturday, which will continue and further strengthen overnight into Sunday. These winds combined with single digit RH's, warm temperatures, and drying fuels will lead to critical fire weather conditions. * AFFECTED AREA...Fire Weather Zone 113 Capitan and Sacramento Mountains/Lincoln NF/LNZ. * TIMING...Mid afternoon Saturday, Saturday night, through Sunday afternoon. * WINDS...West 35 to 45 mph with gusts up to 70 mph. * RELATIVE HUMIDITY...As low as 7 percent. * TEMPERATURES...Up to 76. * HIGHEST THREAT...is located on the eastern slopes of the Sacramento Mountains. * EXPERIMENTAL RFTI... 4 to 5 Marginally critical to critical. * IMPACTS...any fires that develop will likely spread rapidly. Outdoor burning is not recommended.
Summary
It is known for its challenging rapids and scenic landscape, making it a popular destination for experienced whitewater enthusiasts. The ideal streamflow range for the Rio Bonito is between 200 and 700 cubic feet per second (cfs). This ensures a good mix of challenging rapids and navigable sections.
The Rio Bonito is rated as a class III-IV river, which means it is suitable for experienced paddlers who are comfortable navigating technical rapids at higher flows. The segment of the river used for whitewater rafting is approximately 7 miles long, offering a great mix of exciting rapids and calmer sections.
One of the most challenging rapids on the Rio Bonito is known as "The Narrows." This rapid is a class IV section that requires precise navigation and technical skill to navigate. Other notable rapids on the Rio Bonito include "Horseshoe Bend," "The Slide," and "The Chute."
There are specific regulations in place for those looking to run the Rio Bonito. The river falls under the jurisdiction of the New Mexico State Parks Department, which requires all boaters to obtain a permit before launching. Additionally, all boaters must wear a personal flotation device (PFD) at all times while on the river.
In conclusion, the Rio Bonito is a challenging and scenic whitewater river located in New Mexico. Its ideal streamflow range is between 200 and 700 cfs, and it is rated as a class III-IV river. There are specific regulations in place to ensure the safety of all boaters, including the requirement of a permit and PFD use.
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15-Day Weather Outlook
River Run Details
| Last Updated | 2025-06-28 |
| River Levels | 1 cfs (6.08 ft) |
| Percent of Normal | 4% |
| Status | |
| Class Level | iii-iv |
| Elevation | ft |
| Streamflow Discharge | cfs |
| Gauge Height | ft |
| Reporting Streamgage | USGS 08387600 |
5-Day Hourly Forecast Detail
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Area Campgrounds
| Location | Reservations | Toilets |
|---|---|---|
Baca Campground
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Cave Campground
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Jagger's Campground
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Rio Bonito
Headwaters (Sec 27, T8S, R17E) To Confluence Of Streams In Sec 34, T8S, R17E
Headwaters (Hale Canyon) To Nf Boundary