They might look cool and inviting, but rivers can catch even experienced boaters and floaters unaware this time of year.
Everyone, even experienced river runners, should stay on dry land, warns Mark Kenny, an official with the Washington State Parks Boating Program.
“The rivers are swollen right now and near flood state,” he said in a news release. “They’re swift, cold and unforgiving. Only very experienced river runners can navigate them. However, all people should stay out of rivers at this time because the danger is so great.”
A recent spate of warm weather melted snow quickly, causing high and fast-moving water. Boaters may find themselves unexpectedly falling into water so cold it numbs reactions.
The King County Sheriff’s office made 11 rescues on one recent Saturday. The water has risen so high on rivers, to the tree line in some places, that rescue operations are more difficult, too.
Herald Staff
Talk to us
> Give us your news tips.
> Send us a letter to the editor.
> More Herald contact information.
