PORT HURON (WWJ) -- A popular event will have thousands of Michigan residents rafting down the St. Clair River from Port Huron to Marysville this weekend.
But authorities are discouraging people from attending the annual Port Huron Float Down this year.
The Coast Guard in both the U.S. and Canada says that the Float Down -- which is set for Sunday, August 15 -- is dangerous due to the pandemic, and because of the strong currents on the river.
U.S. Coast Guard Lt. Jeremiah Schiessel says the event is not sanctioned by local authorities, and therefore a risk to those who are attending.
"It still is an unsanctioned event, and we discourage participation because it's just not as organized as a normal event that would be permitted," Schiessel told WWJ's Beth Fisher.
Lt. Schiessel adds that if residents do choose to take part in the Float Down, be sure to wear a life jacket and bring a cell phone and documentation in a waterproof container, as there is also the risk of floating over to Canada.
Several years ago, high winds during the event led to about 1,500 people landing on the Canadian shoreline, and leaving them subject to Canadian and U.S. border security.
First responders from multiple U.S. and Canadian agencies will be on-site during the event to ensure the safety of all participants.
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