Arkansas River Flows at Near Record Levels – City of Salida Monitors Recognition Wave

Lina Portman4 weeks ago

0 1 minute read

Posted by: Dan R
June 9, 2024

Arkansas River flow sets records.

The river level has only reached this level a few times in the past 30 years. Pine Creek and the Numbers are currently at 3,700 cubic feet per second, Browns Canyon at 4,470 CFS and Royal Gorge at 4,860.

High water levels lead to increased debris, which can present significant hazards.

All sections of the river should be navigated with increased awareness and safety precautions.

With rising waters in mind, City of Salida staff and contractors monitored the Scout Wave in Salida's Whitewater Park to determine the point at which it would transition from a standing wave to a breaking wave. The transition was confirmed at 3,200 cubic feet per second.

The City calls on all users to exercise extreme caution. Use of the river park for surfing is not recommended at this time. Additionally, the city recommends that all boaters use the bypass canal on the left of the river.

Danny “Dan R” Ridenour has worked in radio and television for over 40 years, starting at high school in Rogers, Arkansas. His radio career stopped in Nashville, Memphis, Oklahoma and finally Colorado. Dan enjoys being involved in the community, having been a member of the Upper Arkansas Service Club and is currently a member of the Salida Community Center Board of Directors and a member of the Chaffee County Fair Committee. He and his wife Carrie spend their days doing everything the mountains have to offer: hiking, camping, fishing and skiing. They raised 3 children and have 2 grandchildren.