This flood occurred during a major drought but did not have an appreciable effect on the drought because of the relatively short duration of the increased streamflows. In those instances, however, flooding was localized and did not cause widespread damage. The peak discharge of the October 6,1911, flood has remained undetermined. Areal Extent of Droughts in New Mexico. Click on image to view a larger version.
Droughts are common in New Mexico.
The normally meager annual precipitation causes extended periods of scant flow in the State's unregulated rivers. Streamflow records can be used as one means to determine the duration and areal extent of droughts. The areal extent and severity of major droughts in New Mexico are shown in Figure 2 . The areas of drought delineated on the maps are based on data from gaging stations statewide. However, only six gaging stations are used to describe the general severity of droughts.