Silver City, NM, October 21, 2022 – Flooding and road and trail damage have been common themes on the Gila National Forest this summer. Areas across the forest have received nearly double the normal amount of moisture compared to monsoon seasons over the past 30 years. Recharged water tables and often-saturated soils result in elevated streamflow for up to a week after each rain event.
"In the arid Southwest, rivers fed by rain and snow are our lifeblood," said Camille Howes, Gila National Forest Supervisor. "However, the sheer amount of precipitation this summer has raised rivers and streams to flood levels, washing away road surface and trail tread both within and outside of burn scars."
High water made crossing impossible on the Gila River, resulting in the recent rescue of a group of Boy Scouts from the Gila Wilderness, and some visitors to Catwalk National Recreation Area found Whitewater Creek flowing too high and fast to safely cross. Visitors have become stuck on flood-damaged roads for days at a time, even in high-clearance vehicles.
The forest road crew is working to restore vehicle access and repair damaged roads. While much of their effort has been focused on roads in the Black Fire area to date, crews are now moving out to work in the Reserve and Chloride areas. With some roads needing to be re-routed outside of drainages and the landscape within the Black Fire adjusting to a new reality, flooding, road damage, and repairs will likely continue over the next 5 years.
Visitors to the forest should always check the weather report prior to their visit, and obtain updated forecasts, as possible, during their stay. The U.S. Geological Survey provides information about current and "normal" streamflow on rivers across New Mexico at https://ondoi.gov/3F2OILS. Plan ahead in case of entrapment - bring extra food, water, and warm gear in case of an unexpected stay overnight in the forest. Be sure to tell a loved one where you will be and when you expect to return. When encountering flooded roadways, Turn Around, Don't Drown!