The Maryland Natural Resources Police has announced, based on information received from the National Weather Service and the Maryland Emergency Management Agency, that boating and other recreational uses of the Upper Potomac River, including creeks and streams, should be avoided at this time.

Due to recent precipitation, river levels are hazardous for recreational use on the main stem of the Upper Potomac River from Cumberland to Little Falls.   

Hazardous stages are defined as those levels which because of hypothermia, wave action and high velocity or treacherous currents, create life threatening conditions for non-whitewater vessels, tubers, swimmers and wading fisherman. These conditions not only exist on the Upper Potomac River, but also on adjacent creeks and streams.

This advisory extends through Monday, May 5, and will be updated at that time if necessary.

This warning does not apply to professionally guided river trips or teams of experienced whitewater paddlers. There are always risks involved with river travel at any level and even low levels do not guarantee that any particular rapid or section of river may not be dangerous.

For the latest and most up to date information on Potomac River conditions between Cumberland and Little Falls, call the National Weather Service at 1-703-260-0305.