TCT,
The video in the link below is a sobering reminder of the hazards of paddling alone, in cold water, near dusk, on large rivers this time of year, and in rivers in flood or at a very, very high level. Fortunately, this guy made it, but it's easy to see how someone could fail to keep their wits about them under these conditions and not have survived. Everyone, be safe out there.
http://www.vimeo.com/10290133