Classifications of Rapids

Classification of Rapids Explained
https://mhoadventures.com/white-water-rapids-classification/#:~:text=This%20rating%20is%20based%20on,from%20easy%20to%20most%20difficult.

This rating is based on the width of the water channel, size, and strength of the waves, degree of obstructions present, ease of swimming, and self-rescue. These correlate to the level of skill and experience needed for navigation. The scale features Roman Numerals I-VI; from easy to most difficult. Additional symbols are also used, with a ( - ) meaning that the class is at the lower end of difficulty for that level while a ( + ) signifies the higher end of difficulty for that class.

Weather conditions, water temperatures and season, guide and client skill levels, remoteness and accessibility, number of and type of watercraft in the group (canoes, kayaks, whitewater rafts), water levels, and more are all contributory factors. Because of the variety of factors, the same rapid may be classified differently from week to week or month to month, based on the water level. Additionally, the classification process of rapids is very subjective.

Here is a picture of what the different classes of rapids can look like. Click this link for more information: https://paddling.com/learn/river-classifications



How the rapids are generally determined:

Class I Rapids:

A river with class I rapids is basically flat water, which is usually calm and only has small waves or rifles. There are hardly any rocks or significant obstacles. It is denoted easy because a beginner, who has mastered basic paddling strokes can canoe or kayak with little or no supervision.

Class II Rapids:

This next grade of rapids features small to medium waves, short bends, and a few obstructions that a novice can safely negotiate. A Class II rapid is close to the difficulty of III and is denoted II+. Generally, these rivers are straightforward and self-rescue is possible.

Class III Rapids:

Rapids classed III are considered intermediate-level difficulty. When this difficulty is at the lower end of the class, it is denoted III-, and when at the upper end, it is III+. The characteristics are medium but irregular waves with obstructions like small falls or drops, counter currents, or eddies. These can succeed in flipping a canoe if care is not taken. Fortunately, self-rescue is possible in grade III rivers, even though it may require some help.

Class IV Rapids:

Class IV rapids are advanced level and should only be navigated by those with the required skills. The waves are large, irregularly sized, and turbulent, but they are relatively predictable and are a delight for the experienced canoeist or whitewater rafter. Other features of grade IV rivers include eddies, holes, falls, and other obstacles that can be dangerous. Like the previous two classes, they can be further graded as IV- or IV+. However, self-rescues are difficult to perform in these rapids. It is therefore highly recommended to scout such rapids ahead of time and travel in a group, even for skilled paddlers.

Class V Rapids:

This class is denoted Expert Level. Class V rivers are characterized by a combination of the following: rapids that are turbulent or continuous and span a long distance, steep gradients with abrupt drops, large unpredictable waves, and the presence of holes. Due to the nature of these waters, it is often dangerous to swim in them. Apart from the fact that self-rescue is really difficult, rescuing another injured party is also challenging. Scouting the rapids is therefore very important as going in a group.

Class VI Rapids:

Only daredevils brave these rapids as they pose an extraordinary danger, and a minor paddling mistake can be fatal. The mighty waves are turbulent and erratic. In addition, the rivers have obstructions that require a lot of skill and preparation to negotiate. These rivers have hardly been negotiated and the rapids are considered nearly impossible.