Every year, more than 5,000 people are killed by the Mississippi River. The exact number of deaths is hard to calculate because many drownings go unreported and unrecorded. The Mississippi River is the largest river system in the United States and its wide stretches of open water are known for their treacherous undertows and rapid currents, making it particularly deadly for those who attempt to swim or boat in the river.
Just as a high number of deaths occur on the river, there are also a large number of injuries that occur every year as a result of boat and swimming accidents, most of which are attributed to a disregard for safety and unsafe practices. According to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, the river maintains a “high, consistent level of current,” which is especially dangerous during high water levels or severe storms. Because of this, those who venture out or into the Mississippi River are advised to take the necessary precautions to ensure their safety, including wearing a life jacket, adhering to safety guidelines, and avoiding areas with especially strong currents.
Due to the high mortality rates associated with the Mississippi River, many organizations, such as the U.S. Coast Guard, have taken action in order to reduce the number of deaths and injuries that occur annually. The Coast Guard works to educate the public about the dangers associated with the river, encourages the usage of lifejackets, and attempts to assist root causes of accidents, such as alcohol and drug abuse, which can contribute to unsafe activity in and around the river. In addition, the Coast Guard works with law enforcement agencies to enforce boating regulations.
Environmental organizations have also taken note of the dangers associated with the Mississippi River, and are focused on reducing pollution and providing alternative recreational activities that keep individuals away from the river’s depths. Additionally, campaigns such as the “Healthy Rivers Initiative” have been established in order to educate and create awareness of the dangers associated with the river. Through workshops and online campaigns, individuals are taught how to read waterways, avoid hazards, and safely operate a boat or any type of vessel in and around the Mississippi River.
The number of deaths annually associated with the Mississippi River reflects the risks associated with the strong currents and undertows that exist within the river. However, individuals can make sure to use caution when engaging in activities on the river. In doing so, the number of deaths and injuries reduced could be significantly cut down.
Depth of the Mississippi River
The Mississippi river is one of the most magnificent, powerful, gargantuan rivers in the United States. It travels across 10 different states and its length is 2,320. It is the largest tributary of the rivers in the country. This staple body of water is the “fourth largest river system in the world by discharge and is the source of drinking water for millions of Americans”. Along with its power and grandeur, there is much danger in its depths.
The average depth of the river is 80 feet deep at low-water mark with an annually average depth of 30 feet deep. The deepest point has been recorded at 305 meters, which is around 1004 feet deep. As a result of its depth and the increasingly strong undertows, the Mississippi river can be a hazardous body of water. On the other hand, because of the depth of this river, there are many opportunities for individuals to go scuba diving and experience the underwater wildlife of the river, such as paddlefish, catfish, carp, and sturgeon.
The depth of the Mississippi River, although daunting, does not hinder the number of activities that take place there, such as swimming, boating, fishing and scuba diving. While there may be a steady flow of water, in certain parts the river is still and silent, providing a serene environment for explorers. The various depths provide a wide variety of experiences and safe havens.
With proper guidance, knowledge, and precautions, the Mississippi River can appear to be a safe haven. Boaters and swimmers need to obey river regulations and take precautionary measures when engaging in activities on or around the river. With vigilance and safety, tragedy can be avoided and a pleasant time can be had on this important river.
Effect of Climate Change on the Mississippi River
The effects of climate change are far-reaching and can be seen throughout the world. One of the bodies of water that is directly affected by climate change is the Mississippi River. As temperatures around the world continue to rise, the Mississippi River is facing extreme changes that have the potential to cause an influx of deaths.
The higher temperatures have caused significant decreases in the precipitation around the Mississippi river basin. This has led to drought like conditions, which have drastically reduced the amount of water in the river. The dropping water levels result in a faster water flow, generating increased and more violent currents. This creates dangerous conditions when combined with the existing hazardous undertows and creates many risks for those who choose to use the river.
The rising temperatures have also led to the melting of ice towards the north of the Mississippi, increasing the overall volume of water in the river, and creating rapid and dangerous currents. As the water rises and falls quickly, it creates an unpredictable environment for those who use the river for recreational activities. Individuals who attempt to interact with the river during this type of changing environment can find themselves in dangerous and life threatening situations.
While the effects of climate change on the Mississippi River have been devastating, they can be somewhat mitigated by reducing the consumption of fossil fuels and other carbon-emitting processes. Every individual’s reduction in their carbon emissions has the potential to lessen the negative impacts of climate change on the river, making it safer. In order to reduce the risk of fatalities associated with the river, it is essential to acknowledge the effects of climate change and take responsibility for our actions.
Causes of Deaths in Mississippi River
Drowning is the primary cause of death in the Mississippi River. In many cases, the undertow is too strong for an individual to combat and they are swept away. Accidents on boats also contribute to the number of deaths, as boating related accidents are one of the major causes of death in the river. Individuals who choose to drink and drive or operate machinery when intoxicated increase the chances of an accident, resulting in the possibility of a fatality.
The Mississippi River is known for its hazardous, rapid currents and its treacherous undertows, especially during high and low water levels. The dangers associated with flooding can significantly increase the areas of extreme and hazardous currents, as water can travel quickly and unpredictably during this time. As a result, individuals should always stay alert and take the necessary precautions when using the Mississippi River and should always remain alert and cautious while engaging in activities on or around the river.
Due to the immense size of the Mississippi River, many individuals are unaware of the hazards that they may encounter while on the river. Without the necessary knowledge, they can find themselves in dangerous situations and their lack of understanding could lead to their demise. Therefore, educating yourself on the Mississippi River and its various hazards can help to reduce the number of casualties related to the river.
The Mississippi River is not for the faint of heart. It is a powerful force of nature that contains both beauty and danger. It is essential for individuals to stay alert and be aware of the risks associated with interacting with the river and adhere to safety regulations and guidelines. With the proper precautions and necessary knowledge, fatalities associated with the river can be minimized.
Common Myths about Mississippi River
One of the most common myths about the Mississippi River is that it is one continuous and fast flowing river. In actuality, this is not the case. Up and down the river there are various semipermanent and permanent obstacles and dams, which slow down the flow of water. As such, the speed of the river varies throughout its length.
Another common myth is that the Mississippi River is too dangerous to be used for recreation. While the dangers of the Mississippi River are real and should be respected, the river can still provide individuals the opportunity to have thrilling experiences and enjoy the outdoors. As long as individuals take the necessary precautions and understand the hazards associated with the river, they can safely enjoy activities on and around the river.
One of the most dangerous myths about the Mississippi River is that it is safe for inexperienced swimmers. The Mississippi River is a large body of water and is known for its dangerous and deadly undertows. Therefore, swimmer’s of all levels should always follow safety regulations and take the necessary precautions before entering the water.
The Mississippi River is a massive body of water filled with potential for both adventure and danger. it is important for individuals to be mindful of the myths and risks associated the river and use extreme caution when participating in activities on or around the river. Taking the time to research and understand the dangers of the Mississippi River can greatly reduce the number of casualties related to the river.
Mitigation Measures for Mississippi River
As mentioned before, various organizations have taken action in order to reduce the number of deaths and injuries that occur on the Mississippi River annually. In addition to these organizations, various individuals have advocated for their own methods to reduce the risk of fatalities on the river.
According to Karen McDonald, an advocate of Mississippi River safety, the best mitigation is to have an understanding of current forecasts. Understanding the current and forecasted river conditions can be beneficial when determining if a specific plan of recreation is appropriate for the day. Additionally, individuals should also be aware of what conditions to expect when the waters are high and cold, and plan accordingly.
Kayakers and canoeists should be equipped with appropriate safety gear, such as a whistle, life jacket and rope, to keep them safe and out of danger. Additionally, they should also have an understanding of their limitations, such as not kayaking or canoeing in cold and high water temperatures, and always have an emergency plan.
Boaters should equip their boats with communication and tracking devices, such as EPIRBs, which can help them if they are in danger or facing an emergency. Additionally, it is important that everyone on board a boat is outfitted with a life jacket for their own safety.
Finally, by regularly taking the necessary safety precautions and processes, individuals can avoid hazards and potential fatalities on the Mississippi River. By educating yourself and others on the dangers associated with the river, and by taking a proactive approach on safety, lives can be saved.
