x
Breaking News
More () »

Boulder County waterways closed for tubing amid safety concerns

The Saint Vrain creeks and river are being closed to tubing and single-chamber flotation devices due to safety concerns.

LYONS, Colo. — The Saint Vrain creeks and river are being closed to tubing due to safety concerns, Boulder County Sheriff's Office said.

The closure began at noon on Friday and includes the North Saint Vrain and Saint Vrain creeks from Apple Valley Road to North Foothills Highway.

On Friday, the Saint Vrain River was flowing around 768 cubic feet per second, and its speed is expected to increase.

> Video above from June 2: Sheriff emphasizes safety as Colorado rivers flow faster.

The closure includes watercraft like single-chamber rafts, single-chamber belly boats, and inner tubes.

There is an exemption for kayaks and white-water canoes, which are allowed, but anyone using those watercraft are strongly encouraged to exercise caution and wear personal protection equipment including life jackets, wet or dry suits and helmets.

A fine of $100 can be issued to anyone who violates the closure.

The sheriff's office did not say when the closure could end.

"If you are recreating on a creek that is not impacted by the closure, or using an exempted watercraft, please be aware that the water conditions still may not be safe for your skill and comfort level," the sheriff's office said. "Always use caution and wear personal safety equipment when recreating in bodies of water."

> Watch 9NEWS original shows, live Colorado news and weather updates, daily forecasts, and sports coverage for free on the 9NEWS+ app on Roku and Fire TV.

SUGGESTED VIDEOS: Latest from 9NEWS 

Watch more from 9NEWS on the free 9NEWS+ app for Roku and Fire TV.  

9NEWS+ has multiple live daily shows including 9NEWS Mornings, Next with Kyle Clark and The Culture Report, an original streaming program. 9NEWS+ is where you can watch live breaking news, weather updates and press conferences. You can also replay recent newscasts and find videos on demand of our top stories, local politics, investigations and Colorado specific features. 

To download 9NEWS+ on Roku search for KUSA.        

To download 9NEWS+ on Fire TV search for 9NEWS.      

RELATED: Watch 9NEWS for free on ROKU, Apple TV, Fire TV 

Before You Leave, Check This Out