Authorities warn public to stay out of Whitewater River due to rapid downstream
The Whitewater River is a popular place for locals and visitors to enjoy some outdoor recreation, but officials and first responders are warning the public to stay away from the river right now.
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KESQ News Channel 3 and CBS Local 2’s Jeremy Chen was the river Thursday morning to provide a demonstration highlighting the dangers. The roaring force of the Whitewater River can be heard along its banks, sweeping away anything that gets caught.
Local water officials with the Desert Water Agency and Coachella Valley Water District threw red watermelons in the river to demonstrate the power of the swift waters downstream near Highway 111.
Ashley Metzger with the Desert Water Agency siad, “If you happen to be near the edge it’s very easy to get swept away, you certainly don’t want any children in this area.”
The surging water is especially dangerous with the increased water flow from snow melt in the Sierras. Unfortunately, officials said that very reason could encourage people to come out and enjoy the river.
“We’re going to see the river flowing like this for months and certainly this entire summer when most people are tempted to get a break from the heat,” Metzger said. “The time it takes for 911 for our response out to the remote location, the individual is going to travel a great distance.”
Robert Perotti, a captain with the Palm Springs Fire Department, said he has been involved in a number of recovery efforts where a person drowned and was found miles downstream. He said if people want to enjoy the river it should be done at the preserve.
“The water is steady and is calmer…where it’s not as turbulant and foreceful,” Captain Perotti said.
Deputies with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department said the area downstream at the Whitewater River is closed to the public at this time. If anyone is caught, consequences range from a citation for trespassing to possible jail time.
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