California Rivers Turn Deadly Cold as Heatwaves Cause Massive Snowmelt; Officials Warn Locals Against Jumping In

(Photo : Mario Tama / Getty Images)
The massive snowmelt brought on by heatwaves has caused the rivers in California to become deadly cold.

Residents in California who are considering jumping into the rivers received a grim warning from the National Weather Service. Due to the tremendous snowmelt that was brought on by heatwaves, the waters have become deadly cold.

Dire Warning: Deadly Cold Waters!

The weather experts advised people to consider their decision carefully before jumping into nearby rivers without life jackets because it might be the last one they ever make.

The warning is being sent as a result of the state's rivers roaring due to an exceptionally wet winter, which has already resulted in fatalities.

Heatwaves Resulting in Massive Snowmelts

The enormous snowfall that was accumulated following a series of storms is melting as the weather warms, releasing icy water into the rivers. When temperatures are predicted to climb to their most extremes of the year thus far, the melt is anticipated to be accelerated from Friday through Sunday. The Central Valley is expected to reach triple-digit temperatures, while the Sierra will reach 80 degrees, according to the meteorological service.

The 4th of July weekend might see a significant snowmelt event, according to Sara Kennedy, the California State Parks' coordinator for boating education and outreach. Snow typically melts gradually during the spring; however, because California is about to experience its hottest days of the year, this may change.

In very isolated areas without the resources to assist a swimmer in trouble, portions of rivers that used to be considered safe, tranquil swimming holes in previous years may no longer appear the same and may suddenly be a dangerous place to swim.

The majority of the snow in the Sierra usually melts by the start of summer, and rivers begin to sag and warm up. This year, which has one of the biggest snowpacks on record, is different. The Sierra Nevada has snow that is still melting and causing runoff at the beginning of summer, making the rivers more hazardous than they would normally be.

While the hottest months of the year are approaching, there are still significant snowmelt events that cause rivers to run faster, higher, and colder than they would at this time of year, according to Kennedy, who is certified in swiftwater rescue and has also received training as a whitewater guide.

Kennedy claimed that because of the Kern River's enormous flow rate-5,049 cubic feet per second last week-which can strike the human body with incredible power, she compared it to someone shooting a person with 5,049 basketballs, KQED reports.

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Deadly Rivers

This year, numerous fatalities have already occurred in California's hazardous rivers. In May, a 4-year-old boy was found to have drowned with his 8-year-old sister on the Kings River in Fresno County after being carried away by a current. Early in June, a 15-year-old boy lost his life while attempting to save his sibling from the raging waves of the Sacramento River. In addition, at least two kayakers have perished this year, according to Kennedy.

According to the Associated Press, in the grip of strong rivers rushing from California's tallest mountain range, at least seven individuals, including two children, have perished or gone missing this spring. There have also been countless rescue operations.

The approaching heat wave will have an effect on any river that is connected to the mountain range, including Cherry Creek, the American, Kings, Yuba, Kern, Kaweah, Mokelumne, San Joaquin, Stanislaus, Tuolumne, and East Walker rivers, SF Gate reports.