Welcome to DU! The truly grassroots left-of-center political community where regular people, not algorithms, drive the discussions and set the standards. Join the community: Create a free account Support DU (and get rid of ads!): Become a Star Member All Forums Issue Forums Culture Forums Alliance Forums Region Forums Support Forums Help & Search

usonian

(9,415 posts)
Sun Jun 4, 2023, 11:29 AM Jun 2023

Massive snowmelt has turned surging California rivers deadly (WAPO, via SFGATE)




A large meadow is flooded due to high rates of snow melt flowing along the Merced River through the Yosemite Valley as viewed on May 25, 2023, in Yosemite National Park, California.
George Rose/Getty Images


The waters below No Hands Bridge's concrete arches usually make for a picturesque and popular Northern California swimming hole, appearing inviting enough for Victor Nguyen to jump in on a late April visit. But fast-moving currents were too much for the 22-year-old. He was among the victims of what authorities warn are heightened dangers on the state's rivers this year.

Waters are flowing off the Sierra Nevada at volumes rarely seen in decades as record-high mountain snowfall melts. Rivers up and down California's Central Valley are coursing with such might, and at such frigid temperatures, that authorities warn few people could survive in them.

The powerful water is adding a new layer of consequences and concerns resulting from an onslaught of winter storms that unleashed paralyzing amounts of snow, widespread flooding and destruction across the long-drought-stricken state.

At least eight people have disappeared in rapids this spring, the San Jose Mercury News reported. Authorities told The Washington Post that although drownings and swift-water rescues are common every year as snow melts and Californians flock to the wilderness, this year's conditions are presenting unfamiliar and underestimated dangers for Californians who have grown accustomed to diminished flows.


more ...
https://www.sfgate.com/news/article/surging-california-rivers-become-a-deadly-threat-18133616.php

As for the magats who blamed the Dems for "taking their water away" .... just find something else to gripe about.
I am sure that you will.


Latest Discussions»General Discussion»Massive snowmelt has turn...