Raging RIVERS
How the watery veins of planet Earth can become turbulent and toxic
WORDS AILSA HARVEY
It can be a challenge to determine the safety of a river, as not all hazards are visible. When fast-flowing water passes over land, daylight reflects off its surface and the obstacles beneath are concealed. These include rocks, pipework and concrete structures. When falling down rapids in a kayak or jumping into what looks like a deep, open river, these unexpected dangers can cause injury. Some of these obstacles don’t cause blunt injury, but can trap a person in the water. The culprit is often in the form of long plants growing underwater from the sides of the banks. If a person gets tangled when submerged, they’re at a high risk of drowning in the river.