Rescue operations resumed on Friday for a 16-year-old boy who went missing in the Potomac River at Great Falls Park. The teenager was reported missing on Thursday morning while swimming with a group.
As search crews conduct their efforts, they face an extreme heat advisory that has gripped the region, with temperatures soaring into the triple digits. Montgomery County Fire & Rescue Assistant Chief Daniel Ogren indicated that the high temperatures have affected the search, necessitating the rotation of personnel to ensure their safety.
The fire department’s Swift Water Team was first dispatched to the scene at approximately 6:15 a.m. on Thursday. According to Assistant Chief David Pazos, the teenager entered the water and did not resurface.
On Thursday, both the Montgomery County and Fairfax County Swift Water Rescue Teams searched extensively before pausing operations overnight. Ogren mentioned that they resumed their efforts at 8 a.m. on Friday but had to reassess around noon due to the intense heat. If they continue searching, it will be in the cooler evening hours.
Ogren expressed concerns about the unprecedented heat impacting their operations, stating, “This has been really unprecedented heat the last couple of days and it has hampered all of our operations.”
As the Fourth of July weekend approaches, officials are reiterating warnings against swimming in the Potomac River. Ogren stressed that swimming in the river is illegal and poses significant dangers, as the current can be deceptive.
He noted, “It looks very peaceful... but it doesn’t look dangerous. So people are somewhat deceived about how quickly the water is flowing.”
This incident follows another tragedy at the same location less than three weeks ago, when Towson University student Nazir Bell, 20, went missing while swimming. His body was recovered three days later.
Ogren cautioned that areas of the river that appear shallow can quickly become deep with strong currents, making it crucial for swimmers to wear life jackets and have proper training.
Reported by HarborBeat based on The Baltimore Banner (source).
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