4 paddleboarders, including 8-year-old, rescued after being blown into middle of Columbia River
Jul 1, 2026, 6:48 PM
Kittitas County deputies responded to a water rescue on the Columbia River near Wanapum State Park in the Vantage area. (Photo courtesy of the Kittitas County Sheriff's Office)
(Photo courtesy of the Kittitas County Sheriff's Office)
Four paddleboarders were rescued after they were blown into the middle of the Columbia River by high winds.
Around 5 p.m. Monday, deputies responded to a water rescue on the Columbia River near Wanapum State Park in the Vantage area, according to the Kittitas County Sheriff’s Office.
“911 callers reported that four people on paddleboards had been blown into the middle of the river by high winds and waves and could not get back to shore,” the sheriff’s office stated.
Deputies learned the paddleboarders were separated, and two had fallen into the cold water and were unable to get back on their boards. They also discovered one of the people was an 8-year-old girl.
The sheriff’s office launched a rescue boat. Authorities noted the wind was so strong even the deputies’ boat was taking waves over the rail.
Deputies were able to find all four people, brought them aboard, and ferried them to Wanapum State Park. Medics evacuated the paddleboarders and treated them for cold exposure.
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Authorities warn of wind and cold water after paddleboarders rescued
“This incident highlights two of the most serious hazards of boating in Kittitas County: sudden wind and cold water,” the sheriff’s office stated.
Authorities said wind can come up quickly and conditions that seem calm from the shore can be dangerous farther out.
“Circumstances can change fast. Boaters should monitor weather carefully, pay attention to wind, and plan conservatively,” officials stated.
The sheriff’s office also highlighted the threat of cold water.
“As we approach a holiday weekend with hot, sunny weather in the forecast, it is especially important to remember that warm air does not mean warm water,” authorities stated. “Even on a 90-degree day, our waterways can be cold enough to cause serious and disabling cold-water shock.”
Officials noted three out of the four paddleboarders were wearing a life jacket. Authorities urged people to always wear a life jacket, stay close enough to help your partners, and turn back before conditions become too dangerous.
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