Heat wave sends crowds to Sacramento-area waterways to beat the scorching temperatures

As Sacramento experiences triple-digit temperatures and its hottest day of the year, officials are warning against swimming in local rivers due to cold water temperatures and fast flows. The National Weather Service advises wearing a life jacket if entering the rivers. The heat wave, caused by a high-pressure system, has prompted an excessive heat warning. While hot air temperatures persist, the river waters remain cold due to melt from the record snow pack. Water temperatures between 60 and 70 degrees can cause muscle stiffness and difficulty breathing. Local government officials have cautioned about the dangers of fast-moving, cold rivers, and rafting companies are not renting out equipment. Signs of heat exhaustion include dizziness and nausea, and if someone does not cool down, they may develop heat stroke and require immediate medical attention.