UPDATE: More than 50 daring participants plunged into Sycamore Pool in Chico, California today, January 1, 2026, despite urgent warnings from safety officials and heavy rainfall. Just 12 minutes before the event started, authorities issued a caution alert, urging swimmers to reconsider the hazardous conditions.
Participants, undeterred by warnings, gathered at the annual Chico Polar Bear Plunge. “We got safety divers on the right,” said John Land, one of the first to dive in. “Everyone’s gonna be safe and sane, I think.” However, Chico police and fire personnel were on high alert, having arrived an hour early to tape off the area and advise the public to steer clear of the water.
In a parallel event, nine swimmers braved the Feather River at Bedrock Park in Oroville, marking a 12-year tradition. Organizer Danny Ballard expressed commitment to keeping the event alive, honoring the legacy of Alberta Tracy, who initiated the plunge.
The Chico Fire Department dispatched eight firefighters and four rescue technicians to ensure safety during the plunge. Battalion Chief Mike Watner voiced his concerns for less experienced swimmers, stating, “If you have 500 people jump in knowing that the water is dangerous… I just don’t support that.”
Despite the warnings, the event proceeded with no reported injuries in either Chico or Oroville. Participants expressed their excitement and determination. Debori Cole, a participant from Peru, remarked, “I love cold water… So anytime there’s an event with water, I’m in.”
As the clock struck 1 p.m., Land took the plunge 10 minutes early to test the waters. “I’ve been in it since I was a baby,” he shared after surfacing, highlighting the event’s personal significance for many attendees.
While the atmosphere buzzed with enthusiasm, officials remained vigilant. Watner emphasized the potential risks involved, stating, “If one of them has an issue, then you expose my personnel to undue risk that they shouldn’t have to take.”
As the plunge concluded, participants celebrated their bravery, but the day serves as a stark reminder of the balance between tradition and safety. The Chico and Oroville Polar Bear Plunges continue to draw crowds, igniting community spirit despite the looming challenges posed by weather conditions.
Strong community ties and a shared love for adventure keep these traditions alive as officials monitor future events closely. Stay tuned for further updates on local safety measures and upcoming community events.
