Weather
Coast Guard Rescues 2 In Rough Seas Near Fort Meyers
The U.S. Coast Guard rescued two boaters in rough seas Wednesday night near Boca Grande. The conditions were caused by Hurricane Michael.
BOCA GRANDE, FL — The U.S. Coast Guard rescued two boaters in rough seas Wednesday night near Boca Grande on Florida's Gulf Coast. Officials said the 50-foot sailboat was the second rescue in the Fort Myers Beach area related to Hurricane Michael.
"Sector St. Petersburg watch standers received a mayday call via VHF-FM channel 16 from the captain aboard the sailboat: Old School," according to the Coast Guard. "He stated the sailboat was beset by weather and needed emergency assistance."
The rescue was performed by a 45-foot Response Boat Medium Boat crew from Station Fort Myers Beach. There were no reported injuries.
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"We cannot reiterate it enough — this storm is dangerous," said William Walsh, deputy commander for Sector St. Petersburg. "Even though the hurricane passed, mariners must monitor the weather and take small craft advisories seriously."
On Tuesday, Station Fort Myers beach rescued two boaters and their dog after the boat took on water from crashing waves.
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"The Coast Guard reminds boaters to heed all local watches and warnings," Coast Guard officials added.
Photo courtesy U.S. Coast Guard
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