last updated 24 June 2025
Anyone boating on Tahoe should know that the weather can change on very short notice.
On June 21, 2025 A sudden Tahoe wind resulted in the death of 8 people from a capsized chriss-craft launch 27' bow rider

They were caught in a large swell when winds gusted to 35mph near near Rubicon Point at D. L. Bliss State Park at 3PM June 21, 2025
A general rule for Tahoe is "The wind picks up in the afternoon, so if you have 10 knots (12 MPH) before noon, you don’t go out,"
Always wear a life jacket:
It takes 10 to 15 minutes to lose dexterity in water below 60 degrees; It is lower than this most of the time before the middle of July (as of 2025).
See 2025 Boating Accident
see Do dead bodies sink in Tahoe and never come up
- Check the marine forecast: Don't rely solely on general weather apps. Utilize resources like weather.gov or the National Weather Service Reno lake forecast for the most accurate information regarding wind and lake conditions.
- Watch for signs of storms: Pay close attention to increasing winds, darkening skies, and sudden temperature drops.
- Head in early: If storms are expected, or if you observe any of the above signs, head back to shore as early as possible.
- Wear a life vest: This is essential, even on large boats.
- The US Coast Guard and California law require Coast Guard-approved life vests must be carried and readily accessible for each passenger if the vessel is 16 feet or longer.
- Specifically, all children under 13 must wear a Coast Guard-approved life jacket while on a moving recreational vessel according to California State Parks (.gov) and anyone on a personal watercraft or being towed behind a vessel must also wear one.
- Carry a VHF radio: Monitor channel 16 or 22 for real-time safety broadcasts.
- Tell someone your float plan: Inform a friend or family member where you're going and when you expect to return.
Links
Survival FLoating
Boating Safety and Education for All | California State Parks