Water rescue spotlights California spring river hazards
Humboldt County authorities are warning people it is still too early to swim in some rivers due to high and swift water. A report of multiple swimmers in distress this week led to a sheriff’s deputy rescuing three people stuck on a rock in Willow Creek. The Sheriff’s Office says the three Arcata-area residents had decided to swim due to good weather. The office says people should check National Weather Service information on river levels and flow information. The advice includes the Trinity River. Warming spring weather causes snowmelt that sends cold and fast-moving water down through California’s rivers to lakes and reservoirs. Authorities say even the most experienced swimmers can be in danger. California State Parks on Thursday began a series of online programs to help prevent drownings in waterways.