There’s an exciting frenzy in stepping into new waters. Because rivers are a vital part of our ecosystem, they make for some of the best tourist hotspots to refresh and catch up with the lush serenity nature has on offer.
Some rivers, however, are notorious for their treacherous currents, unpredictable rapids, and dangerous wildlife. This guide shows you which rivers you should not dip or swim in when you finally stand before their sprawling waters. Here are the 12 most dangerous rivers in the world.
1. Amazon River, South America
The Amazon is the world’s largest river, beaming with dangerous wildlife, including piranhas, anacondas, and current-bursting electric eels. So consider thinking twice before dipping your toes into this famous body of water that ranks as the most dangerous river in the world.
2. Rio Tinto, Spain
Over the years, industrial activities around the Rio Tinto River have downsized the pH of the Rio Tinto with high concentrations of heavy metals and sulphuric acid. A dip may lead to skin irritability, breakout, and new allergies.
3. Citarum River, Indonesia
Infamous for its unrivaled pollution level, the Citarium is a victim of the same fate as the Rio Tinto. Dipping your toes into the deadliest river in the world could expose them to industrial toxins and sickness-inducing human wastes.
4. Ganges, India
A sacred river known for its ritual, rites, and prayers, the Ganges is one of the most polluted rivers in the world; you may want to hesitate before stepping barefoot. Crocodiles and snakes also make the Ganges a dangerous water body to bathe in.
5. The Nile River, Egypt
Although the longest river on the planet, the Nile’s water houses harmful bacteria that could lead to a skin infection. You also may encounter dangerous wildlife while taking a dive in one of the most dangerous rivers in the world.
6. Congo River, Congo
The Congo River suffers from dissolved wastes from nearby mining activity, making entering unsafe. Besides the acidity of the river, the Congo is notorious for its rampant waterborne diseases, a prevalent cause of high mortality rates among locals.
7. Yangtze River, China
The Yangtze is desecrated with human and industrial wastes that make it unsafe for a bath. Although its water quality has significantly improved in recent years, heavy metal pollution is still prevalent.
8. Mariola River, Philippines
The communities around this body of water have high reports of chronic diseases such as cholera and other waterborne illnesses. Therefore, you are advised never to delve in when standing before its stretching reeds.
9. Mississippi River, USA
Notorious for its strong currents and undertows that make swimming dangerous. The precarious nature of this waterfront could cause fatality even for small boats. Its high pollution level also means you can return home sick if you decide to plunge.
10. Amu Darya River, Central Asia
The Amu Darya could break the pollution scale as one of Asia’s most unhygienic water bodies. Deady bacteria that may affect your health are housed in this river. In addition, its high concentration of untreated sewage can cause skin irritation and gastrointestinal issues.
11. Tiete River, Brazil
Environmental degradation has spiked the measure of contamination in the Tiete waters, making it unsafe for bathing or cooling down the summer heat. Declared unsafe for fishing and swimming, this river could quickly turn your tourist vacation into a hospital visit.
12. Colorado River, USA
A popular destination for whitewater rafting, the dangerous currents and rapids of the Colorado River make it unsafe for a dip or a dive. Caution is crucial when wading in the river as the dangerous currents could sweep you off your feet in one wave splash.
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