LAKE TAHOE

Summer has arrived in the Tahoe Basin, bringing warmer temperatures, busy beaches, and increased recreation on Lake Tahoe. While the air temperatures may feel inviting, Lake Tahoe’s water remains dangerously cold and can pose serious risks to swimmers, paddlers, boaters, and anyone enjoying the lake.

Lake Tahoe is one of the deepest lakes in North America, which means water temperatures remain cold year-round. Even on warm summer days, cold water can quickly affect the body, leading to cold water shock, swim failure, exhaustion, and hypothermia — even for strong swimmers.

Every year, emergency responders throughout the Tahoe Basin respond to water emergencies that often occur unexpectedly and can impact even experienced swimmers and boaters. The North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District (NLTFPD) urges residents and visitors to understand the risks and take precautions before entering the water.

Wear a Life Jacket: A properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket is one of the most effective ways to prevent drowning. Life jackets should be worn while boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, canoeing, and whenever recreating on the water.

Supervise Children Closely: Drowning can happen quickly and quietly. Designate a “Water Watcher” whose only responsibility is actively supervising children without distractions.

Before heading out on the water:

• Check weather, wind, and lake conditions.
• Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature.
• Enter the water slowly and know one’s limitations.
• Never recreate alone.
• Stay hydrated and stay protected from the sun.
• Let someone know destinations and expected return times.

Even on warm summer days, Lake Tahoe’s water remains cold enough to cause cold water shock, swim failure, exhaustion, and hypothermia. Weather conditions on Lake Tahoe can change rapidly, especially during afternoon hours.

~ North Lake Tahoe Fire Protection District press release