Weather officials warn of dangerous local river conditions
By Joe Hathaway on Friday, April 5th, 2024 in More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
NORTHEAST OREGON — The National Weather Service (NWS) is warning residents of potentially dangerous conditions at local rivers.
The NWS says snow melt will fill rivers through the upcoming week, leading to swift moving rivers. There will be a rise in the rivers, especially around the drainage of NE Oregon and SE Washington mountains.
The NWS doesn’t expect flooding due to the forecasted rain and snow, but banks may be weakened by the fast moving water. Even though the air temperatures are rising the rivers will remain cold and a danger if fallen into.
With the cold weather and extremely cold water, hypothermia is a real concern.
Hypothermia occurs when the body’s core temperature drops below 95°F. It is often caused by exposure to cold temperatures and can lead to serious health problems, such as arrhythmia (irregular heartbeat), heart failure, and damage to the kidneys or liver. Hypothermia can also occur at cool temperatures (above 40°F) if you become chilled from rain, sweat, or being in cold water.
Hypothermia affects the brain and makes it difficult to think clearly, so people may not realize what is happening and that they need help. It’s important to be aware of warning signs and early symptoms, including:
- Cold feet and hands
- Puffy or swollen face
- Pale skin
- Shivering or shaking
- Slowed or slurred speech
- Feeling sleepy, angry, or confused
If the exposure to cold continues, later symptoms of hypothermia can include stiff and jerky arm and leg movements, slow heartbeat or breathing, loss of consciousness, and eventually, death.
Hypothermia is a medical emergency. If someone is showing signs of hypothermia, call 911 right away. Try to move the person to a warmer place, offer them a warm drink, and wrap them in dry blankets, towels, or coats.
For more on the river forecasts: https://water.noaa.gov/
Zoom into your area and select the symbol to look at the upcoming forecast and current status of that river point.
