Sheriff Warns: Stay Off The Thornapple River! [Video]

After several rescues over the past few weeks, the Kent County Sheriffs Department is warning recreational kayakers and tubers to avoid the Thornapple River.

"The combination of swift currents along with several down trees, which are a result of spring storms, has created hazardous conditions on the river," the sheriff's office said. 

"We have seen several instances in which people are unable to avoid the downed trees and are swept into their branches and trapped for long periods of time after being overturned."

The fast currents are especially a concern on the stretch of river between 68th Street and 84th Street, which is popular among tubers.

At least two fast water rescues had to be performed on that stretch of the Thornapple since June 21.

Further down the river in Barry County, the problem eases somewhat. Managers at Indian Valley Campground told FOX 17 News the current is slower there, and they've had crews out removing debris.