The temperatures have dropped significantly, which is good news for those who want to travel on the Kuskokwim River. But even though conditions are projected to improve, Bethel Search and Rescue is warning people to travel very carefully, stay aware, and stay on established trails.
Trails between Bethel and Akiak, Kwethluk, Akiachak, Oscarville, and Napaskiak are established on the river or through villages themselves. The ice thickness ranges between six and 10 inches on those trails, which is deep enough for snowmachines and four-wheelers, but not for cars. There is currently not a trail through Church Slough.
BSAR warns travelers to stay away from some dangerous spots because of open water. These include the mouth of the Kwethluk River and the Kuskokuak Slough near Kwethluk. They say the upper end of the Kuskokuak slough is “wide open," and there is open water below Kwethluk.
The report also noted an increase in alcohol-related accidents on the river. Bethel Search and Rescue had to rescue a man and woman who fell into a creek near Oscarville last week. BSAR urges people to not drink while traveling.