Rio Grande at Otowi Bridge — Daily Mean Discharge

Current Conditions (as of 2026-07-07)

The Rio Grande at Otowi Bridge is flowing at 245 ft³/s, significantly below historical norms. This is the 245th lowest flow in the record, placing it in the lowest 5% of all daily observations. The streamflow is 55% below the 5-year median of 539 ft³/s, indicating drought-stressed conditions.

Recent Trends

• Weekly decline: Flow dropped 6.1% week-over-week (261 → 245 ft³/s)
• Monthly decline: Down 18.1% from June (299 → 245 ft³/s)
• Annual comparison: 33.8% lower than July 2025 (370 → 245 ft³/s)

Assessment

The Rio Grande is in an exceptionally dry period. The consistent declines across all timeframes (week, month, year) indicate sustained low water availability. The 54.5% deficit against the 5-year median is severe and reflects drought conditions across the New Mexico reach of the basin. Current flows are insufficient for normal irrigation demand and ecosystem needs in this region.

Monitoring: Continued tracking recommended. Watch for further declines into July-August irrigation season, when demand typically peaks against already-constrained supply.