Paddleboarders Rescued on Lake Superior: Wind Crisis Sparks Warning!
Two women were rescued from Lake Superior after drifting miles due to strong winds. DNR highlights safety tips for paddleboarders.
Paddleboarders Rescued on Lake Superior: Wind Crisis Sparks Warning!
On August 8, 2025, a dramatic rescue unfolded on Lake Superior in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, as two paddleboarders found themselves several miles offshore due to unexpectedly strong winds. The Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) received a distress call around 3:30 p.m. near Ontonagon. According to freep.com, officers quickly launched a patrol boat from the Ontonagon Village Marina to reach the women, aged 29 from Minnesota and 37 from Illinois.
By the time help arrived at 4:08 p.m., the women had been pushed a full two miles out from the coast. Notably, neither was equipped with a life jacket; one had lost her paddle and the other was experiencing paddleboarding for the first time. Fortunately, a conservation officer reported that they were in good condition but could not paddle against the strong winds. They were safely returned to shore, highlighting the urgent need for awareness and preparedness when engaging in activities on the Great Lakes.
The Dangers of the Great Lakes
The rescue serves as a stark reminder of the inherent dangers posed by the Great Lakes, particularly with regard to unpredictable weather conditions and lake currents. Yahoo News emphasizes the sobering statistics surrounding drownings in these waters, noting that over 1,350 individuals have drowned in the Great Lakes over the past 15 years, with nearly half occurring in Lake Michigan alone. Tragically, many incidents involve swimmers being swept away by powerful currents or falling overboard while not wearing life jackets.
Safety concerns are heightened by the fact that lifeguards are present at only 1% of Michigan’s public beaches, leaving beachgoers vulnerable. In fact, Dave Benjamin, founder of the Great Lakes Surf Rescue Project, points out that approximately one-third of drownings are caused by dangerous currents, while two-thirds involve individuals entering the water without the necessary survival skills.
Understanding the Risks
Experts urge caution when enjoying the Great Lakes, as dangerous currents and breaking waves are common, especially near piers. The National Weather Service advises that before venturing into the water, swimmers should check current conditions with lifeguards or beach patrols where available. According to weather.gov, it’s critical to stay at least 100 yards away from piers, where the risk of strong currents is significantly heightened.
When it comes to waves, anything above 3 feet poses a risk, and even smaller waves can exert considerable force. Swimmers should always be mindful of their surroundings and prepare accordingly. The DNR recommends essential safety measures, such as wearing life jackets, using leashes for paddleboards, carrying waterproof phones, and being aware of personal limits and weather forecasts before hitting the water.
The rescue of the two paddleboarders is a timely reminder to take safety seriously. As summer draws to a close, it’s crucial that both locals and visitors enjoy the beauty of the Great Lakes while remaining vigilant and prepared. In these waters, there’s definitely something to be said for being cautious and smart.