Rafters Rescued from Rushing Russian River Near Healdsburg

Three people, including two children, were airlifted to safety after being stranded on a raft in fast-moving water.

Mar. 31, 2026 at 12:33pm

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A sweeping, atmospheric landscape painting in muted tones of grey, green, and blue, depicting the vast, rugged banks of the Russian River. The small raft carrying the rescued rafters is barely visible in the distance, dwarfed by the towering cliffs and dense foliage surrounding the river.The Russian River's dramatic natural setting can quickly turn treacherous, as seen in a recent rescue operation that airlifted stranded rafters to safety.Healdsburg Today

A group of four people were rescued from the Russian River near Healdsburg, California, after being swept away while rafting. Three people, an adult and two children, were stuck on a raft in fast-moving water, while a fourth person made it to shore on her own. All four were airlifted to safety by the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office.

Why it matters

The incident highlights the dangers of recreating on the Russian River, especially during periods of high temperatures and fast-moving water. Authorities are urging visitors to the area to always wear properly fitted life jackets when on the water to increase their chances of survival in the event of an emergency.

The details

According to the Sonoma County Sheriff's Office, the group was spotted stranded on a raft along the river bank, holding onto a tree. A Sheriff's Office paramedic was lowered to the group, and all three were then airlifted to shore. The fourth member of the party had fallen into the river but made it to shore on her own and was also airlifted to safety.

  • The incident occurred on Friday, March 27, 2026.
  • Temperatures in the area reached 85 degrees Fahrenheit on the day of the rescue.

The players

Sonoma County Sheriff's Office

The local law enforcement agency that conducted the rescue operation.

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What they’re saying

“Wearing a properly fitted (personal flotation device) can make a critical difference in survivability and rescue outcomes. Anyone recreating on the water is strongly encouraged to wear a life jacket at all times.”

— Sonoma County Sheriff's Officials

What’s next

Authorities are expected to continue emphasizing the importance of water safety and the use of life jackets to prevent future incidents on the Russian River.

The takeaway

This rescue operation serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable and dangerous conditions that can arise on the Russian River, even during relatively mild weather. It underscores the critical importance of being prepared and wearing proper safety equipment when engaging in water-based activities in the region.