The Maryland Natural Resources Police (NRP) announced that boating and other recreational use of the Upper Potomac River, including its creeks and streams, should be avoided, based on information received from the National Weather Service and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA).
This advisory is from September 30, 2010 through October 04, 2010 and will be updated at that time if necessary.
Due to recent precipitation, river levels are hazardous for recreational use on the entire main stem of the Upper Potomac River from Cumberland to Little Falls.
Hazardous stages are water levels which pose a threat to non white-water vessels, tubers, swimmers and other recreational users. They are caused by wave action, water velocity, and treacherous currents. This hazardous condition may exist on tributaries of the Potomac River.
This warning does not apply to professionally guided river trips. The public is reminded that river travel involves risks. Water and boating safety should be of utmost importance. The Maryland Natural Resources Police remind boaters to always wear a life jacket. It is mandatory to wear a USCG approved life jacket while boating on the upper Potomac River from November 15 to May 15 each year.
For more the latest information on Potomac River conditions between Cumberland and Little Falls, call the National Weather Service at (703) 996-2200.