Classifications of rapids

Rapids are sections of a river where the water flows quickly and turbulently due to steep gradients, rocks, and obstacles. They are classified based on the difficulty of navigating them, from Class I (easy, gentle rapids) to Class VI (extremely dangerous, nearly impossible to pass). Class I involves small waves and few obstacles, while Class II introduces larger waves and some obstacles requiring basic maneuvering. Higher classes (III, IV, V) include more powerful jumps, large obstacles, and complex passages that demand advanced skills. Class VI is reserved for unpassable or life-threatening rapids, often deemed unsafe for recreational boating.