May 9, 2024 10:00 a.m. 

The YMCA of Douglas County is urging residents to use extra caution around river water this weekend.

A YMCA release said with warmer temperatures on the way, it can be tempting to want to swim in area rivers. However, this time of year, the water is still very cold. For example, on Wednesday the temperature of the North Umpqua River was only 49 degrees.

Recreationists should treat water below 70 degrees with caution. Water that is 60 degrees and below can be life threatening. Check the river water temperature before heading out to recreate. A link is always available at: www.ymcaofdouglascounty.org