California surfer found clinging to lobster pot buoy after being swept out to sea
A surfer in California had a terrifying encounter with the sea but survived thanks to a daring rescue. The 26-year-old was swept off his board by powerful waves while surfing at a Santa Barbara County beach around 6:38 p.m. Friday, according to the Santa Barbara County Fire Department.
Accompanied by a friend, the man was reported missing, prompting an urgent rescue at Haskell’s Beach in Goleta. Rescue crews quickly found his surfboard washed ashore and launched drones equipped with infrared cameras to scan the dark waters for the missing surfer.
CLINGING FOR SURVIVAL: Surfer holds onto a lobster trap buoy after waves ripped away his board and swept him into deep waters off California’s coast.
His friend called 911 after spotting his board washing up on shore. First responders used a drone to find the surfer and quickly… pic.twitter.com/Icj9ed00EM
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Dramatic footage shows the man clinging to a lobster trap buoy about a quarter mile from shore, fighting to stay afloat against the strong currents. Rescue swimmers were sent out and successfully guided him back to land, where he was unharmed, officials said.
The fire department urged caution after the incident: “Never go in to the ocean alone, especially in rough conditions. It can save lives.”
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