In a dramatic rescue off the coast of Puerto Rico, two fishermen were saved from the choppy seas after their boat capsized.
The men had been stranded on their 24-foot fishing vessel, which ran out of fuel on Saturday, as they struggled to stay afloat amid fierce storm conditions.
The Dangerous Situation Unfolds
The fishermen were clinging to their sinking boat about five miles from Desecheo Island, located off Puerto Rico’s western shore.
With eight-foot storm surges and winds gusting at 25 to 30 knots, the situation quickly turned critical.
The Coast Guard was alerted after a distress call came in around 4 p.m. on Saturday, detailing the disabled vessel.
A Heroic Rescue
Coast Guard crews sprang into action.
A member of the team bravely jumped into the rough waters and swam out to the two men, pulling them from their sinking vessel and hoisting them onto a helicopter.
The boat capsized just minutes later, but fortunately, the men were already safe in the air.
Coast Guard’s Efficient Efforts
According to Lt. David Tirado Tolosa of the Coast Guard, the operation was carried out “safely and efficiently.”
He emphasized the unpredictability of maritime emergencies and recommended that all mariners wear life jackets and carry a marine-grade radio, as the fishermen had done.
A Close Call at Sea
The Coast Guard’s swift action prevented what could have been a tragedy.
No injuries were reported, and the two fishermen were taken to safety without further incident.
This rescue highlights the importance of preparedness and quick response in maritime emergencies.
Another Sea Rescue in Florida
This dramatic rescue comes just a week after the Coast Guard located a missing 74-year-old boater off the coast of Florida.
David Diehl had gone missing on December 4, when his 30-foot catamaran, the Stargazer, was last heard from near Fort Myers.
After two weeks adrift, Diehl was found 30 miles off Cuba, floating in international waters.
Despite the terrifying ordeal, he was found in good health.
The Importance of Maritime Safety
Both rescues underscore the crucial role of the Coast Guard and the importance of being prepared when out at sea.
With the unpredictable nature of the ocean, having the right equipment and the knowledge to stay safe can make all the difference.