A tense rescue mission took place along the coast when a group of beachgoers found themselves trapped in a cave in Santa Cruz on Sunday evening.
Members of the group, who were ensnared in the cave near Davenport, sent a text to 911 just before 8 p.m. as water levels began to rise. Some individuals in the group were reportedly unable to swim, which complicated the situation further.
Responders, including Cal Fire, the Santa Cruz County Fire Department, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Santa Cruz City Fire Department, a lifeguard, and both the Santa Cruz Harbor Patrol and California State Parks Lifeguards, quickly arrived at the scene.
When rescuers got there, they learned the cave had only two risky escape options. One path led to a beach where escape was possible via the water, while the other took them to a smaller pocket beach that was too steep to navigate.
Five people managed to make it out of the cave, aided by lifeguards, thanks to their swimming skills.
However, three individuals who were stranded on the beach couldn’t swim and required assistance from the Coast Guard, who pulled them up to a nearby cliff.
Among those rescued was a pregnant woman, whose injuries were not specified. Following the intense rescue operation, officials cautioned coastal visitors about the hazards presented by fluctuating tides.
“Make sure to check local tide tables before you go out,” CAL FIRE CZU advised. “As the water rises, you can find yourself trapped on coastal cliffs with no way out.”
They also reminded those caught in high water: “If you get stuck due to storm surge, find the highest safe place and call 911 immediately. Do not attempt to climb unstable cliffs or swim through heavy waves.”
