Swiftwater Rescue Saves Stranded Kayaker

A routine afternoon on the river quickly took a dangerous turn Thursday when two kayakers overturned in swift water below the Powerhouse Dam at Rock Island State Park, leaving one woman stranded on rocks in the middle of the river.

According to the Sparta-White County Volunteer Rescue Squad, the incident occurred while the Powerhouse Dam was actively releasing water, creating hazardous conditions on the river. As the current swept the pair downstream, one woman became trapped on the rocks with fast-moving water surrounding her, prompting a multi-agency rescue response.

The Sparta-White County Volunteer Rescue Squad, Doyle Volunteer Fire Department, Central View Volunteer Fire Department and Tennessee State Park Rangers responded to the scene. Faced with rapidly changing conditions and limited access to the victim, responders quickly developed a coordinated rescue plan.

Rescue personnel contacted the Tennessee Valley Authority, which temporarily suspended water releases from the dam to create safer conditions for the operation. Crews then established a technical rope rescue system, allowing specially trained swiftwater rescuers to safely reach the woman and escort her back to shore.

She was evaluated following the rescue and was not injured.

Rescue officials said the successful operation was the result of extensive training and cooperation between multiple agencies, with responders relying on technical rope systems, coordinated communications and established rescue procedures to safely complete the mission.

With heavy recreational traffic expected over the Independence Day weekend, the rescue squad is encouraging anyone planning to kayak, canoe or boat to wear a properly fitted personal flotation device, check river conditions and scheduled dam releases before entering the water, stay hydrated, know their limits and let someone know their plans before heading outdoors.

Emergency responders said they remain prepared to respond throughout the holiday weekend should additional emergencies arise.