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Hidden Dangers in Colorado Waterways

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With temperatures climbing, more people may be looking to cool off in Colorado’s waterways but officials are requesting caution.

As farmers irrigate their crops and reservoirs fill, water flows are increasing. Because it’s early in the snow melt season, rivers and other waterways may have logs or other debris blocking flows which can pose a danger if someone gets swept downstream.

The Coloradoan reports “at Pine View in the Poudre Canyon, the Poudre River water level is at 4.2 on the rock. And at the mouth of the canyon west of Fort Collins, the river is running at 1,800 cubic feet per second, right at the 130-year average for this time of year. The Poudre typically peaks in mid-June.”

If you’re going to enjoy the water, experts say to always wear a life jacket, and check for debris in the water way you are planning to go down before you set out.

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