Red River residents received encouraging news on Thursday as the Rio Grande measured 2 feet above its average level since May, according to Taos News. The rise, recorded on Oct. 27, follows several days of rain and snow that have also delivered up to 4 inches of snowfall at Taos Ski Valley over the past week, with 3 inches falling over the weekend, per skitaos.com.
Local officials and water managers see the increased river flow and fresh snowpack as a positive sign for the coming months. The added moisture could improve irrigation prospects in the Taos Valley, where a weak snowpack last winter led to a poor irrigation season and limited white‑water rafting opportunities. Snowmelt traditionally feeds the Rio Grande in late spring, sustaining both agriculture and the rafting industry that draws tourists to the region.
Hydrologic data from the U.S. Geological Survey gauge below the Taos Junction Bridge show the river has topped 700 cubic feet per second (cfs) only once in the past 365 days—recorded in November 2025—and exceeded 600 cfs just twice, both in March. On Oct. 26, provisional figures from the Pilar gauge indicated a flow of 2,470 cfs, reflecting the recent storm’s impact.
National Weather Service forecasters in Albuquerque warned that additional storm activity is expected to begin Friday, Oct. 30, and could continue through the weekend into Sunday. Temperatures are projected to remain near seasonal averages for the state, with slightly above‑average readings for eastern New Mexico, according to the service.
Experts also highlighted the Rio Puerco’s elevated levels. Andrew Mangham, senior service hydrologist with the National Weather Service, told reporters that the river was at 20.62 feet—still a minor flood stage but among the highest readings in decades, possibly since 1944.
The ongoing El Niño pattern is expected to persist through January, according to the ENSO Center, potentially delivering more precipitation that could further bolster snowpack and river flows. While the Upper Rio Grande Valley escaped the severe flooding seen elsewhere in northern New Mexico, the current conditions suggest a more favorable water outlook for Red River’s ski season and local farms.
What’s next: Residents should monitor the National Weather Service updates as the forecasted storm system approaches on Oct. 30, and stay informed about any river level advisories that may affect recreation or irrigation plans.
Sources: taosnews.com
