* The warm air temperatures in the 70s and 80s, except mid to upper
60s in the western Maine mountains, may cause people to
underestimate the dangers of the cold water temperatures which are
currently only around 50 degrees across Sebago Lake, Lake
Winnipesaukee, and in the region's smaller lakes and rivers.

* The cold water temperatures can quickly cause hypothermia to anyone
immersed in the water. According to the US Coast Guard, when the
water temperatures are at or below 50 degrees, the chance of
immediate incapacitation due to cold shock is extremely high.
Anyone on small boats, canoes, or kayaks should plan accordingly if
recreating this weekend and use extreme caution to avoid this
threat. Paddle smart from the start and always wear your life
jacket!

* Breezy west winds are also expected today with gusts of 25 to 35
mph. If boating on large bodies of water, these gusty winds can
increase the likelihood of overturning your boat, canoe, or kayak
due to increased wave heights.

* Due to recent rainfall, area rivers continue to run fast with
swift water currents. The swift water can easily overturn a kayak
or canoe into the frigid river waters. Once in the cold water, the
strong currents will make it difficult to reach safety.