Officials warn of dangerous spring water conditions
AUBURN—Emergency crews continued their search Saturday afternoon for a kayaker who went missing after a watercraft overturned near the American River Confluence late Friday, marking the region’s first major search-and-rescue operation of the spring season.
The Placer County Sheriff’s Office said the kayaker was last seen near the historic No Hands Bridge around 5 p.m. Friday. A companion was rescued shortly after the incident, found clinging to rocks below the bridge after swimming to safety.
Search efforts were suspended Friday night due to darkness and resumed at first light Saturday. The multi-agency operation includes personnel from Cal Fire’s Nevada-Yuba-Placer Unit, California State Parks, the El Dorado County Sheriff’s Office, and the California Highway Patrol.
Officials said the search would continue until nightfall and advised members of the public to avoid the area during the operation. Authorities are warning that the American River remains extremely cold and fast-moving during the spring season, creating hazardous conditions for kayakers and swimmers.
With warmer weather drawing more visitors to the region’s rivers and lakes, officials are urging caution for anyone planning spring water activities. Cold temperatures, high flows from snowmelt, and unpredictable currents can quickly turn recreational outings into life-threatening situations.
The identity of the missing kayaker has not yet been released. Updates will be provided as the search continues.
Copyright © 2025, Folsom Times, a digital product of All Town Media LLC. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, without the prior written permission of the publisher.
