Rivers and lakes kill more people than you might think. Every year, swimmers and boaters die in popular spots like the Colorado River and Lake Michigan. Some places are so dangerous they’ve earned nicknames like “Killer Kern.”
This article looks at the six deadliest waters in America – three rivers and three lakes. We’ll tell you where they are, how many lives they’ve taken, and what makes them so deadly. If you’re planning a trip to any of these places, you need to know the risks
Let’s begin with the deadliest three rivers.
Deadliest Rivers – Colorado River
- Location: The Colorado River flows through several states, primarily in Colorado, Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and California. It is famous for its dramatic canyons, including the Grand Canyon.
- Fatalities: In 2024, at least 32 people have died in Colorado’s waters, with a significant number of these fatalities occurring on the Colorado River due to various incidents, including drownings and boating accidents
The Colorado River is known for its stunning scenery and recreational opportunities, attracting thousands of visitors each year.
However, it can also be extremely dangerous. The river’s swift currents and fluctuating water levels pose serious risks to swimmers and boaters. In recent years, particularly during peak flow seasons, the river has seen an alarming increase in fatalities.
Colorado Parks and Wildlife has been actively promoting water safety measures as fatalities continue to rise. Many victims were not wearing life jackets at the time of their accidents, highlighting the importance of adhering to safety guidelines while enjoying the river’s beauty
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Deadliest Rivers – Kern River
- Location: The Kern River is located in California, flowing approximately 165 miles from the Sierra Nevada mountains to Bakersfield.
- Fatalities: Since 1968, over 335 people have died in the Kern River, making it one of the most dangerous rivers in the United States.
The Kern River is known for its stunning scenery and thrilling whitewater rapids, attracting outdoor enthusiasts from all over. It begins near Mount Whitney and winds through scenic canyons, offering a range of recreational activities like rafting, kayaking, and fishing.
However, its beauty belies its dangers. The river has earned the nickname “Killer Kern” due to its swift currents and cold water temperatures, which can lead to hypothermia and shock.
The river’s flow is primarily fed by snowmelt, causing water levels to rise dramatically during spring and summer. This seasonal increase can create treacherous conditions, even for experienced paddlers.
In recent years, fatalities have continued to rise, with several incidents involving professional kayakers. Local authorities have installed warning signs at access points to remind visitors of the risks involved.
Despite its dangers, the Kern River remains a popular destination for adventure seekers. Visitors are encouraged to take safety precautions seriously and consider guided trips if they lack experience in navigating challenging waters.
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Deadliest Rivers – Arkansas River
- Location: The Arkansas River flows through Colorado, Kansas, Oklahoma, and Arkansas, with a significant portion running through the Rocky Mountains in Colorado.
- Fatalities: In 2024, there have been at least 15 confirmed water-related deaths associated with the Arkansas River, highlighting its dangers.
The Arkansas River is a popular destination for outdoor activities such as rafting, kayaking, and tubing. It offers a range of rapids that attract thrill-seekers, particularly in areas like the Royal Gorge and the Arkansas Headwaters Recreation Area.
However, its swift currents and cold water can be perilous, especially during peak runoff season when water levels rise dramatically due to snowmelt.
In recent years, the river has seen an increase in fatalities. Many of these incidents involve individuals who fall from their tubes or rafts and struggle to stay afloat in the fast-moving water. In July 2024, a man tragically drowned after becoming separated from his tubing group.
Despite efforts by bystanders to perform CPR, he could not be revived. Notably, he was not wearing a personal flotation device (PFD) at the time of the accident.
Authorities emphasize the importance of safety precautions when enjoying the Arkansas River. This includes wearing life jackets and being aware of changing water conditions.
Now for the lakes.
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Deadliest Lakes – Lake Michigan
- Location: Lake Michigan is located in the Great Lakes region of North America, bordered by four states: Illinois, Indiana, Wisconsin, and Michigan.
- Fatalities: As of 2024, Lake Michigan has recorded over 40 drowning fatalities, with a significant spike in incidents during the summer months.
Lake Michigan is a popular destination for swimming, boating, and other water activities. Its vast expanse of water and beautiful beaches attract millions of visitors each year.
However, the lake can be deceptively dangerous. In 2023 alone, there were 39 reported drownings, with a notable increase in fatalities following Labor Day when lifeguards are no longer on duty.
Many swimmers underestimate the risks associated with rip currents and changing weather conditions.
Recent incidents have highlighted these dangers. For example, in June 2024, two separate drowning incidents occurred in the Chicago area involving teenagers and adults who faced unexpected challenges while enjoying the water.
Factors such as cold water temperatures, strong winds, and alcohol consumption often contribute to these tragedies.
Safety experts emphasize the importance of wearing life jackets and being aware of local conditions before entering the water. Many fatalities involve individuals who are not adequately prepared for the lake’s unpredictable nature.
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Deadliest Lakes – Lake Lanier
- Location: Lake Lanier is located in northern Georgia, approximately 60 miles northeast of Atlanta. It spans five counties: Hall, Forsyth, Dawson, Gwinnett, and Lumpkin.
- Fatalities: Since its creation in the 1950s, Lake Lanier has been associated with over 200 drowning incidents, with several fatalities occurring each year.
Lake Lanier, officially known as Lake Sidney Lanier, is a large reservoir formed by the construction of the Buford Dam on the Chattahoochee River in 1956.
Covering about 38,000 acres and featuring approximately 692 miles of shoreline, it serves multiple purposes, including flood control, water supply for Atlanta and surrounding areas, and recreation. The lake is a popular spot for boating, fishing, swimming, and other water sports.
Despite its popularity, Lake Lanier has a reputation for being dangerous. The combination of heavy boat traffic, submerged hazards from its past (including trees and stumps left from the area’s flooding), and changing weather conditions can lead to accidents.
In recent years, there has been a notable increase in drownings during the summer months when the lake sees the highest number of visitors. Many victims were not wearing life jackets or were swimming in areas without lifeguards.
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Deadliest Lakes – Lake Erie
- Location: Lake Erie is situated in the Great Lakes region, bordered by the U.S. states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, and New York, as well as the Canadian province of Ontario.
- Fatalities: In 2024, Lake Erie recorded at least four drowning fatalities during the summer months, with ongoing concerns about safety due to its unpredictable conditions.
Lake Erie is known for its recreational opportunities, including swimming, fishing, and boating. However, it is also one of the deadliest of the Great Lakes.
The lake’s shallow waters can create dangerous conditions, such as strong rip currents and sudden weather changes. These factors can catch swimmers off guard, leading to tragic accidents.
Recent incidents have highlighted these dangers. In July 2024, a 14-year-old boy drowned at Port Stanley after he and his family were caught in rough waters.
Despite rescue efforts from beachgoers and emergency services, he could not be saved. This incident has raised awareness about the need for better safety measures and signage in areas known for hazardous conditions.
Experts emphasize that many visitors may not fully understand the risks associated with swimming in Lake Erie. The lake’s conditions can change rapidly, leading to high waves and murky water that obscures underwater hazards.
Local safety advocates are calling for improved water safety education and clearer warnings about the dangers of swimming in certain areas.
To prevent further tragedies, authorities recommend that swimmers always wear life jackets and stay informed about local conditions before entering the water.
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Final Words
These rivers and lakes are stunning places that draw millions of visitors each year. But they’re also killers. The numbers don’t lie – hundreds of people have died in these waters, often because they didn’t know the dangers or ignored basic safety rules.
The message is simple: enjoy these places, but always wear a life jacket and know what you’re getting into.
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Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.