Boaters are being warned that area lakes – especially Lake Washington – could be extremely hazardous for the near future.

The high rivers have washed an unusual number of logs, deadheads, stumps, and other debris into lakes this spring.

The Cedar River empties into the south end of Lake Washington in Renton, and the Sammamish River (aka Slough) empties into the north end of the lake.

The extra debris this year means added danger to water skiers, inner tubers, jet skis, and to boats. These hazards can lurk on the surface or even just below the surface, virtually unseen. They are considered extremely hazardous.

Lakefront owners who have logs and other debris drift in are asked to throw a rope on the hazard to prevent it from causing damage or returning to open water.