Many people are heading to beaches, rivers and lakes for a cool splash or other water activities as weather across Oregon gets hotter this week, but the National Weather Service warns of hidden dangers when swimming.
In Portland, for instance, temperatures could reach as high as 76 degrees on Sunday and throughout the coming week. But the federal agency says the water can remain very cold even when the air is warm. Plunging into cold water at any temperature can be dangerous if you are not prepared for the sudden effects it can have on your body and brain.
The weather is getting warm this weekend & while it may be tempting to hit local rivers to cool down, the water is VERY cold.Be sure to follow the Northwest River Forecast Center https://t.co/bEpeSStcpJ all of your water and hydro forecast needs! pic.twitter.com/ok4moKveYm
— NWS Portland (@NWSPortland) April 3, 2026
When your body hits cold water, cold shock or hypothermia can cause dramatic changes in breathing, heart rate and blood pressure, the NWS warns. The agency adds that the sudden gasp and rapid breathing alone increase the risk of drowning, even for confident swimmers in calm water…