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HEADING OUT TO ENJOY THE WATER?  REMEMBER TO WATCH THE WEATHER

HEADING OUT TO ENJOY THE WATER? REMEMBER TO WATCH THE WEATHER

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Some people have blue eyes, and others have brown ones; but, everybody can have a weather eye.

When planning a fishing expedition along the Brazos River, a canoe trip, or camping with friends at one of the many Brazos River Authority parks, it’s important to keep an eye on weather forecasts.

A beautiful, clear-skied Texas day can quickly morph into dangerous and severe weather conditions despite one's plans to enjoy the weekend. Safety must be the top concern during any recreational activity and precautions and preparations can help ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable trip.

A portion of “Tornado Alley” stretches across parts of Texas, a nickname the National Centers for Environmental Information says is due to the high frequency of tornadoes each year, typically in the late spring and early fall. But, it’s not just tornados recreationists should keep an eye on. Violent weather systems can include high winds, sudden thunderstorms, lightning and hail. Monitor weather-related radars before and during a trip and if severe weather is approaching, get off the water.

Be aware of cell phone service and that certain areas may not bode well for cell phones and those depending on them for the latest weather update.

There are plenty of fun adventurous waiting to happen along the Brazos River, whether it is along the almost 220 miles of recreational shoreline at Possum Kingdom Lake, at the free overnight campsites at Lake Granbury in Hood County, just southwest of Fort Worth, or at any of the parks along Lake Limestone.

Preparing for, and keeping an eye on, the weather is just one means of ensuring safe activities on and around the water.

Always ensure appropriately-sized lifejackets are available and used. Different devices are better fits for different activities. For more information on personal floatation devices, click here. Drownings are fast and they are silent.

Boating may be an enjoyable activity, but operating the watercraft safely is paramount. Alcohol is the leading known contributing factor in fatal boating accidents, according to the American Boating Association. There were more than 700 boating fatalities across the United States in 2016. All it takes is one beer to impair a boater’s balance and coordination. Plus, if arrested for boating while intoxicated, your regular auto driver’s license can be suspended.

Never swim alone and look before you leap as large objects or rocks may not be seen from above the water.

Stay alert for rising river conditions at  https://www.BrazosBasinNOW.org At any point there is an emergency on or near the water call 911 immediately.

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