Photo/USGS
The U.S. Coast Guard rescued two people off a beach near Tsusiat Falls on the west coast of Vancouver Island after the boaters made a mayday call on Sunday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Puget Sound responded to a mayday call at 2:20 pm.
The call was made from Canadian waters, but the aircrew from Port Angeles was the closest asset that was able to conduct the rescue.
They coordinated a response through Canadian authorities.
The boaters reportedly were taking on water in surf conditions, but were able to safely get to shore and wait for help.
The MH-65 Dolphin aircrew from Sector Field Office Port Angeles arrived on scene at 3:13 pm and conducted the hoist.
The two boaters were suffering symptoms related to hypothermia.
The USCG says they were transported to Neah Bay, Washington and transferred to a Canadian Forces helicopter aircrew.
Ben O'Hara
