Don’t Go Swimming Or Fall In A River Or Lake In NH: Freezing Water Might Cause Hypothermia

CONCORD, NH — The National Weather Service is warning Granite Staters and visitors to New Hampshire this weekend to be cautious around water bodies due to the threat of hypothermia.

Air temperatures, especially on Saturday, are expected to be warm — in the upper 60s or lower 70s, depending on the location. These tempting temps “may cause people to underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures,” according to an alert on Friday afternoon.

Forecasters said some water bodies — like Sebago Lake, Lake Winnipesaukee, and smaller lakes, ponds, and rivers, are just slightly above freezing, with some as low as 40 degrees.

“The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone immersed in the water,” the alert stated. “According to the U.S. Coast Guard, when the water temperatures are below 50 degrees, the chance of immediate incapacitation due to cold shock is extremely high.”

Anyone enjoying the weekend on a small boat, canoe, or kayak should “plan accordingly.” Forecasters suggest using extreme caution to avoid the threat of hypothermia.

“Paddle smart from the start and always wear your lifejacket,” the alert stated.

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