PG&E warns Californians about dangers of swimming in cold rivers

On May 5, the Pacific Gas & Electric Company (PG&E) released a statement warning California residents to be careful of “cold, swift spring flows.”

Upon entering mid-spring, PG&E’s statement explained that rivers and streams are becoming colder and experiencing swifter, more intense water flows. These flows rapidly change based on temperature and time of day.

Even when it isn’t spring, California rivers are typically cold and fluctuating in flow intensity throughout the day. This is because the state’s rivers are primarily sustained by melted snow.

Swimming in very cold rivers poses several safety risks. Being in cold water lowers the body temperature 25 to 30 times faster than normal, which can increase the risk of hypothermia, death, or lifelong side effects.

If the water enters the swimmer’s ear canal, it can cause vertigo, dizziness, or confusion, making it harder for them to safely exit the water.

The risk of these things happening increases if the swimmer meets the water unexpectedly. This sudden fall may trigger the “gasp reflex,” an automatic inhale of water. The knee-jerk response can result in hypothermia, temporary paralysis, or cardiac arrest.

Once falling in, rescue can be extremely difficult, which is why PG&E cautions Californians against swimming in or even exploring near rivers, streams, hydroelectric facilities, and dams. If one still decides to, the company warns to take “extra precautions.”

But if an accident does happen, PG&E added a list of “self-rescue” methods readers can use to help themselves out of the water.

These techniques include staying calm, removing heavy shoes, turning on your back, and keeping your feet pointed downstream.

The company also suggested huddling close to others in the water, if this is an option, to help each other get warmer and lessen drowning chances.

California’s Cold Rivers

The U.S. National Weather Service of Eureka, California (NWS), reported that during this time of year, the state’s northwest rivers, such as the American River, sit at temperatures in the 50s and lower 60s. This is as cold as average ocean temperatures.

“Swimming in water this cold can cause you to lose muscle strength and control,” the NWS’s Facebook post read.

During Mother’s Day weekend, temperatures reached the hundreds in parts of California. In Palm Springs, an extreme heat warning was even issued by the National Weather Service.

To try and find solace from the heat, many families visited the 55-degree American River for a swim. 

This caused several officials to raise the alarm.

“We have areas that are very steep, where the water moves very quickly. We have some small rapids,” Captain Mark Nunez from Sacramento Metro Fire told KCRA. “Clay Banks and the San Juan Rapids are two of the most popular areas for people to hang out, but they’re also the most dangerous.”

Officials further reiterated the risks of venturing into cold rivers.