Invisible Holiday Danger Poses Risk to Swimmers

A stronger-than-normal current is hidden from swimmers' view.

Divers and police officers are warning swimmers to respect the velocity of the St. Croix's hidden current this Fourth of July holiday.

A swollen river is producing a current that divers say is much more dangerous and unpredictable than years past. It means even experienced swimmers should take caution.

Police are asking people not to swim the river's main channel, which extends from the Hudson dike to the Minnesota side of the river.

Those who cannot resist are asked to wear life jackets.

An 18-year-old drowned two weeks ago in the area. A strong current and undertow may have been factors.

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