Wednesday, June 18, six hikers launched into an expedition in the north of the Sierra Nevada massif, California. Three of them, a forties and two fifty -year -olds, lost their lives by jumping in the Rattlesnake falls to cool off. When they did not go up to the surface, their companions immediately contacted the emergency services.
Their bodies were found four days after
Four days were necessary to find the bodies, due to bad weather and strong currents. The three victims were engaged as volunteer advisers to the International Circle of Genetic Studies, a research initiative between teachers and students. The organization confirmed their death via a press release.
“We regret to inform you that three of our advisers died last Wednesday, June 18, 2025, in an accident near San Francisco. (…) We present our condolences to their families”.
The unknown dangers of waterfalls according to our emergencyist
Skipping in a waterfall or simply swimming can quickly turn to drama, even for experienced athletes. Dr. Gérald Kierzek, emergency doctor and medical director of True Medical, alert on several major risks.
“”The currents are of unsuspected powercapable of sucking even experienced swimmers towards the underwater cavities. The swirls created by the waterfall can maintain a person underwater “.
But that’s not all. Hydrocution is also a danger. “”The thermal shock caused by cold water can cause brutal loss of knowledge, especially after physical effort and in hot weather“.
THE trauma are also frequent. “”By jumping from the rocks, you can hit stones under water. There are also slippery rocks and stone falls on the surface“Recalls the doctor.
Finally, the rapid water climbs are a deadly threat. “”Upstream precipitation can quickly transform a peaceful cascade into a torrent“.
What is the procedure to follow, to avoid an accident?
To prevent a hike from tragedy, certain precautions are essential, recalls Dr. Kierzek:
- Before swimming, “Check the weather, visually assess the currents, locate the turmoil areas and find out locally about the risks“;
- To prevent hydrocution, “Gradually enter the water, refresh your neck, your wrists and your temples before immersion. Avoid swimming after a big meal or intense effort “ ;
- And in general, “Never bathe alone, wear a vest if necessary, never jump without knowing the depth and get away from the falling areas”.
Most of these tips, simple to apply, can save lives.