Play it safe on the river

High river flows are providing breathtaking views. Being on the river at this time of year, however, should only be the province of whitewater experts. The combination of high flows and cold water is a particularly dangerous and potentially deadly combination. Rich Landers with the Spokesman Review wrote an excellent article, Frigid waters pose springtime risk, on these dangers.

The wettest March on record is now giving way to snow melt from the mountains. Flows at the beginning of April were nearly 28,000 cfs, declined to under 20,000 cfs and are now projected to go above 35,000 cfs by the beginning of May.

Click here to follow NOAA’s Spokane River Forecast. In addition, Avista provides a 24-hour telephone information line that gives anticipated changes in Lake Spokane, the Spokane River and Lake Coeur d’Alene. In Washington, call 509-495-8043; in Idaho, call 208-769-1357. The recording advises shoreline property owners, commercial and recreational users of changes in the lake and river elevation levels that may affect plans for water use.

When in doubt, please follow the motto “Stay Out, Stay Alive.”