Dramatic Rescues Unfold on Sonoma Coast Amidst Powerful Surf

Two separate water rescues occurred on the Sonoma Coast within a two-hour span on Sunday, highlighting the dangers of powerful surf. A 9-year-old girl and her mother were pulled from the water at Schoolhouse Beach after a wave swept the child away, prompting the mother to enter the surf. Bystanders assisted in their rescue before emergency services arrived. Earlier, a man was injured by a wave at Wrights Beach and airlifted to a hospital.

Key Takeaways

• Two separate rescues occurred on the Sonoma Coast on Sunday.
• A 9-year-old girl and her mother were rescued from the surf at Schoolhouse Beach.
• A man was injured by a wave and airlifted from Wrights Beach.
• The incidents happened during a period of powerful surf.

Back-to-Back Rescues

Sonoma County experienced two dramatic rescues on Sunday afternoon, demonstrating the unpredictable nature of the ocean. The first incident took place around 12:45 p.m. at Wrights Beach, located just south of Jenner. A man sustained a leg injury after being struck by a wave. He was subsequently airlifted from the beach to an awaiting ambulance and transported to a local hospital for treatment.

Approximately two hours later, emergency services were dispatched to Schoolhouse Beach, situated about 2.5 miles south of Wrights Beach. A young girl was swept into the water by a wave. Her mother entered the surf in an attempt to reach her daughter. Fortunately, bystanders were able to assist in pulling both the child and her mother to shore. Firefighters and paramedics were on the scene to evaluate their condition before they were taken to a hospital. Officials expressed relief that the outcome was not more severe, emphasizing the fortunate nature of the rescues.

Safety Advisory

In light of these incidents, the Sonoma County Fire District issued a reminder to beachgoers to exercise caution. They urged the public to always be mindful of their surroundings at the beach and to never turn their backs to the ocean, especially during periods of strong surf. The powerful waves present a significant hazard, and vigilance is crucial for ensuring safety.

Sources

• Child, mother pulled from surf in back-to-back Sonoma Coast rescues – The Press Democrat, The Press Democrat.