National Weather Service Cold Water Safety Message

...Please check with state and local authorities regarding guidelines for allowed activities...

* The warm air temperatures this weekend in the mid 70s may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are currently only in the mid 40s to mid 50s across Lake Champlain and the smaller lakes and rivers.

* The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water. According to the US Coast Guard, when the water temperatures are below 50 degrees, the chance of immediate incapacitation due to cold shock is extremely high. Anyone on small boats, canoes or kayaks should plan accordingly if recreating this weekend and use extreme caution to avoid this threat. Paddle smart from the start and always wear your life jacket!

* Breezy winds are also expected this weekend with gusts 20 to 30 mph from the south. If boating on large bodies of water, these strong winds can increase the likelihood of overturning your boat,canoe or kayak due to increased wave heights.

* Due to recent rain, area rivers continue to run fast with swift water currents. The swift water can easily overturn a kayak or canoe into the frigid river waters. Once in the cold water, the strong currents will make it difficult to reach safety. close