Dozens of kayakers have been rescued after strong winds made sea excursions miserable.
A group of 33 people, including children, left a boat ramp Monday to paddle across to Nikajak Cave when strong winds caused some to fall into the water, Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency officials said.
The group scrambled to the riverbank near the cave and called for help.
Emergency services arrived, but they had to battle the weather themselves before entering the water.
One of the rescue boats crashed in strong winds while still attached to a trailer.
Fortunately, the boat was not damaged and the crew was able to get out to sea. They were able to get the kayaker to shore despite “very poor water conditions.”
No one was injured in the ordeal, officials said.
Rescuers credited the fact that all kayakers were wearing life jackets contributing to the successful rescue and survival.
“This is a great example of the importance of life jackets,” said TWRA Boat Officer David Holt.
“With water temperatures in the mid-50s and strong wind speeds, life jackets were an important safety element.”
