Today, Little Red River Park has reopened following a temporary closure.
With the park reopened, there are still risk and hazards associated with the recent high-water event.
Users are urged to exercise caution when visiting the park.
“While we are pleased to reopen Little Red River Park to the public, river conditions still warrant care and attention,” said Tim Yeaman, Parks and Open Spaces Manager. “We strongly encourage all visitors to stay well back from the river’s edge, avoid entering the water, and be aware that hazards from the recent high-water event may still be present.”
Current hazards include:
- Strong Currents: The force of moving water is extremely powerful and can quickly knock a person off their feet, pull them downstream, and make returning to shore difficult or impossible.
- Hazards: High water can conceal submerged logs, sharp rocks, deep drop-offs, and floating debris that may remain even as levels drop.
- Unstable Banks: Riverbanks may be slippery, eroded, or unstable. Standing too close to the edge may result in slips, falls, or bank collapse into fast-moving water.
- Cold Water: River water remains extremely cold. Sudden immersion can cause involuntary gasping, hyperventilation, and rapid loss of motor control.
- Entrapment: Fast-moving water can force a person underwater if a foot or leg becomes trapped between submerged rocks, branches, or debris, making self-rescue extremely difficult.
Supervise children and pets closely near the river, stick to designated trails and avoid all unnecessary contact with the water.
City officials are continuing to monitor river conditions.