The Kings River in Tulare County is closed to boats, jet skis and other motorized watercraft for the remainder of the season because of low water levels and hazardous conditions, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office announced.

Sheriff Boudreaux ordered the closure effective immediately after the Sheriff’s Office determined that water levels and flows were no longer safe for motorized watercraft.

Water levels are below 1 foot in most of the river, and elevated sandbars have formed over the past several months, according to the Sheriff’s Office. The river’s flow rate also dropped below 800 cubic feet per second, activating the 5 mph zone under Tulare County Ordinance 2-03-1140, Section F.

An assessment of the river found numerous hazards, including sandbars, tree trunks, logs and other wood debris just below the water’s surface. The conditions are so hazardous that the Sheriff’s Office Marine Enforcement Unit is unable to launch its vessels.

The restriction applies to motorized watercraft on the Kings River within Tulare County. The river remains open for paddleboarding, kayaking, swimming and floating.

The Sheriff’s Office urged people participating in those activities to use extreme caution and wear personal flotation devices while in the water.

The Marine Enforcement Unit also thanked visitors for following safety rules and regulations during the river season.

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