Washtenaw County Sheriff Warns of Dangerous Conditions Along Huron River

The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office Marine Safety Division is warning of dangerous conditions along the Huron River. Due to recent weather conditions of significant rainfall, families planning to spend time on the Huron River are urged to reconsider.

"Water levels are currently high and in many areas flooding has created hazardous, rough and swift water conditions," Derrick Jackson, director of community engagement for the sheriff's office said in a press release. "This current environment is capable of dislodging tree stumps, debris and underwater hazards along with a significant undertow."

Jackson said on Friday, two kayakers entered the Huron River near the Belle Road launch area at Hudson Mills Metropark in Dexter. Due to swift currents, one of the kayakers struck an underwater stump and was flipped from his kayak. The victim was able to swim to a small safety area but was unable to make it to shore due to the swift current. A water rescue was necessary.

On Saturday, a family launched their canoe on the Huron River near the Belle Road launch area. Soon after entering the water, the swift current carried them into an underwater hazard, flipping their canoe. All four members were rescued and returned safely to shore.

"All victims were rescued with non-life threatening injuries. However, the conditions of the river clearly played a role in both situations," Jackson said.