River Deaths On The Rise In Sacramento

(AP) - More people are drowning in two of Sacramento's rivers, and the drought may be partially responsible.

The Sacramento Bee reports there have been six drownings on the Sacramento River in 2015 where typically there are between one and two annually. Data from the Sacramento County coroner shows drownings on the American River are two times higher than average years in the last decade.

Drowning Accident Rescue Team member Bob Erickson said the drought has pulled back the shoreline at Tiscornia Beach near the confluence of the two rivers. There have been five deaths in the area so far this year.

Erickson said swimmers get caught in strong currents where the water suddenly deepens.

Rescue teams have started patrolling the area and newly-posted signs warn people of river dangers.