When you think of rivers, you might picture cool, flowing water adding to the scenic beauty of the countryside and offering a tranquil escape. However, some rivers are incredibly unsafe and notorious for their deadly reputation. These perilous rivers feature unpredictable currents, venomous wildlife, and pollution. Extreme environmental factors also contribute to the dangers of some rivers. Here are ten of the most dangerous rivers in the world.
1. Brisbane River, Australia
In Australia, the Brisbane River is a frightening place to be due to the dangerous creatures that live inside the water. The river is also known as “The Brown Snake” due to the water quality, and it is notorious for its dangerous species, including bull sharks. Since they are able to live in both freshwater and saltwater, there are up to 3000 of these aggressive sharks residing in the river. These sharks are responsible for a significant percentage of unprovoked shark attacks.
2. Kern River, United States
While the Kern River in California is popular for kayakers and rafting enthusiasts, it is also very deadly. This river is popular for its strong, rapid currents, and ironically, it is dangerous for that same reason. Over 335 people have lost their lives in the Kern River since 1968, which is why the river is also known as the “Killer Kern.” Even experienced adventurers have difficulty navigating the powerful currents. The river runs from the Sierra Nevadas to Bakersfield, and the melted snow from the mountains triggers the aggressive currents. Visitors are urged to heed the warning sign “Stay Out, Stay Alive” placed near the river.
3. Shanay-Timpishka, Peru
In the Peruvian Amazon, the Shanay-Timpishka River is notorious for its scorching water. With temperatures soaring to a dangerous 212°F (100°C), this river is the hottest in the world. Both humans and animals would die to death in this river, which can cause third-degree burns in mere seconds. Therefore, the slightest contact with this water can be life-threatening. Though it has been used in local healing rituals, visitors are strongly cautioned to stay far away.
4. Rio Tinto, Spain
In Spain, a river called Rio Tinto flows with deep red and orange hues. Though the unique colours may be intriguing, the water has toxic chemicals and heavy metals. The colours in the water are the result of mining activities that contaminated the water. The river’s acidity is extreme, with a pH level of 2.3, roughly the same as lemon juice. The river is dangerous for animals and humans, but some resilient bacteria reside inside. The Rio Tinto’s toxic nature makes it a danger to anyone who may try to swim in it, posing severe risks to health and well-being.
5. Amazon River, South America
The Amazon River is one of the most dangerous rivers in the world for a number of reasons. One of the reasons is its vast size, as it spans several countries in South America. Another reason is that it is home to some of the most dangerous creatures on Earth, including green anacondas, red-bellied piranhas, and black caimans. It also harbours aggressive bull sharks. Other factors contributing to the dangers include its strong currents, unpredictable floods, and pollution from illegal mining, which further increase the risks.
6. Vishwamitri River, India
The Vishwamitri River is a crocodile-infested river located in India. There are over 1,000 crocodiles living in the river, which annually floods and displaces the reptiles. When this occurs, they often head toward populated areas like Vadodara, a city with over 2 million residents. As a result, rainy seasons cause residents to frequently have alarming encounters with crocodiles. In August 2024, panic ignited in Vadodara after hundreds of crocodiles were found stranded in the city.
