Lough Ree RNLI comes to assistance of person during 'extremely rough' Storm Diana conditions

Lough Ree RNLI are advising people 'to check the weather forecast before heading out on the water and to always wear a life jacket' after they came to the assistance of person during Storm Diana earlier today, Wednesday, November 28.

Sarah Bradbury, Lifeboat Press Officer with Lough Ree RNLI, explained, "Lough Ree RNLI volunteers were contacted at 10.35 this morning by a gentleman who had sought refuge the previous evening, due to failing light at the floating jetty, off the shore of St John’s Wood on the Roscommon side of Lough Ree. Due to worsening conditions overnight and this morning he requested our assistance.

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"Our Inshore Lifeboat, The Eric Rowse was launched at 10.48 and the crew made their way to the scene. Conditions on the lake were extremely rough with Storm Diana in full strength. Winds were storm force 8 from the south with 2 metre waves, making for a very bumpy trip up the lake."

Ms Bradbury added, "Upon arrival on scene, the crew found the casualty to be uninjured, wearing his life jacket and wet weather clothing and in good form. Having ensured the casualty vessel was well secured, the gentleman was brought onto The Eric Rowse and brought back to the Station in Coosan Point."

Also read: Met Éireann extends Storm Diana weather warning

Speaking after the call out volunteer Lifeboat Helm, Tom Bradbury said, "Conditions can change on the lake very quickly, especially at this time of year. This gentleman did exactly as we advise, when light started failing last night he sought a suitable mooring for the night and when he awoke to worsening conditions this morning he requested assistance. We would always advise people using the lake to check the weather forecast before heading out on the water and to always wear a life jacket."