WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – Local authorities are searching for a missing Lynden man who was last seen near the Nooksack River.

The Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office says 61-year-old Richard Rutledge was reported missing from River Road just off the Guide on Dec. 28.

The ensuing search involved a ground team, K9 units, drones, several boats and a Border Patrol helicopter over the following two days.

But hazardous river conditions forced the search to stop on its third day.

The operation resumed on Sunday, Jan. 4, but Rutledge remains missing.

The Sheriff’s Office says the search will continue when the river conditions improve.

Anyone with information or tips is asked to call 911.