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Forecasted Flooding and Heavy Rains Lead to Fatal Boating Conditions
Richmond, VA — The Virginia Department of Wildlife Resources (DWR) would like to advise recreational boaters to use extreme caution this upcoming weekend as the National Weather Service has issued Flood Warnings in several locations throughout the Commonwealth.
DWR Conservation Police Officers (CPOs) have responded to and worked several boating incidents that have resulted in fatalities and injuries to boaters who have attempted to navigate waters that were affected by heavy rains creating significantly higher than normal water levels, dangerously swift current and trash and other debris that could be floating on the surface or just below the waterline.
“As stewards of safe boating in Virginia, we ask that you check for rising and flooded waters before launching, and to give the proper attention to safety warnings,” said Colonel John Cobb, Chief of DWR Conservation Police. “Those who attempt to boat in dangerous conditions put their own lives in jeopardy, as well as CPOs and other first responders who have to rescue them.”
If you are a canoer, kayaker or other recreational boater and chose to launch on any river, DWR makes the following recommendations:
- We strongly urge you to think before you go. Always check local river conditions. A resource for this is the American Whitewater website: www.americanwhitewater.org
- Check your local forecast. Pop-up storms can cause flash flooding and water levels can change drastically and quickly.
- Check the River and Lake conditions with the National Weather Service (Wakefield office: www.weather.gov/akq/; Blacksburg office: www.weather.gov/rnk/)
- Be aware that it is possible that high water will force the temporary closing of some boat ramps.
- Have a good plan and share your plan with someone who knows where you will be and when to expect you to return.
- Finally, make sure you have the proper equipment onboard and that you wear a properly sized and fitted life jacket. Remember that life jackets do save lives!
DWR is the boating agency for the Commonwealth and strives to ensure the safety of all who venture out to enjoy time on Virginia’s waterways. DWR recommends that all boaters and paddlers take a boating safety course, whether they are required to or not by law.
Information on taking a boating safety course can be found here: dwr.virginia.gov/boating/education/requirement/steps-to-requirement/
ALWAYS WEAR YOUR LIFE JACKET. IT WILL SAVE YOUR LIFE.
PLEASE DO NOT DISREGARD SAFETY MESSAGES. THEY ARE THERE TO PROTECT YOU!