#rnli – Lough Derg RNLI Lifeboat was launched to assist two Kayakers in difficulty in near gale winds at Terryglass at the northern end of Lough Derg.
Yesterday afternoon Lough Derg RNLI lifeboat was launched at the request of Valentia Coast Guard to assist two kayakers who were in difficulty in Force 6/7 winds after launching their 7ft open canoe from Terryglass Harbour on the Tipperary shore.
The lifeboat launched at 13.58hrs with Helm Eleanor Hooker, David Moore and Tom Dunne on board. Winds were Southerly, Force 6 gusting 7 (28-35knots). The lifeboat crew were informed that the kayakers, unable to control their canoe, were being blown across the lake by the strong winds.
The lifeboat located the two people at the entrance to Portumna Harbour, on the County Galway shore. They were both shaken by their ordeal, but unharmed. It was their first time to go afloat on Lough Derg. They had not dressed adequately for the conditions and needed to get warmed up. The kayak was secured on the shore at Portumna Harbour, and the two kayakers were taken on the lifeboat back to Terryglass Harbour, where they dried off and warmed up and returned to their car before collecting the kayak from Portumna Harbour.
Deputy Launching Authority Liam Maloney said that it is important to 'check the weather conditions before going out on the lake, dress appropriately and make sure to tell someone when you set off and what time you expect to return'.
The Lifeboat returned to station and was ready for service again at 15.15hrs.