As temperatures rise, many flock to rivers and streams to cool off. Northern Colorado safety officials are urging “extreme caution” as rivers swell from their banks with . In the span of two weeks, three have died in the Poudre River due to the unsafe conditions.
Fort Collins Police Services has issued a prohibiting the use of single chamber air-inflated devices like inner tubes. have also issued bans against tubing in Clear and Boulder creek.
While it’s not issuing use restrictions for the Poudre River, the Larimer County Sheriff’s Office said in that “we strong discourage river recreation in unsafe conditions and or with inadequate safety equipment.” It’s urging those who want to enjoy the river to connect with a commercial rafting company:
...they have qualified instructors, safety equipment, trained staff and emergency protocols already in place. These extra measures decrease, but do not eliminate all the risks.
Across much of Northern Colorado there are Flood Watches and Warnings. A remains in effect for the Poudre River near Greeley. A is in effect for the Poudre River near the mouth of the Canyon, the Snake River near Montezuma, and parts of the South Platte River near Kersey, Weldona and Balzac.