A MAJOR operation was launched in Co Dublin last night after a yacht reported difficulty reaching shore safely as Storm Ashley approaches.
The Howth RNLI crew set off after receiving an alert just before 7pm following a request for assistance from a lone sailor, who could not reach shore due to “deteriorating weather”.
The sailor left Strangford in Northern Ireland early yesterday and was making their way to Dun Laoghaire port in Dublin before he got himself into a struggle.
When darkness set in, the sailor was reported to be unable to make progress due to “the flow of the tide” and “the deteriorating weather”.
As the lone sailor got himself in a pinch, he contacted the Dublin Coast Guard to request assistance to reach shore safely.
After the report was raised, the Howth RNLI crew launched the All-Weather lifeboat within ten minutes with seven crew on board.
The crew said that the sea conditions were good with moderate southerly winds, which were expected to strengthen through the night as Storm Ashley hits Ireland.
The lifeboat was successful in reaching the 35 foot yacht, located five miles North of Howth, close to Lambay Island.
The coxswain manoeuvred the lifeboat alongside the boat, and a crew member was transferred across.
The sailor was accessed by the crew member and was reported to be fatigued but in good health.
A tow line was secured to the boat and the lifeboat took it safely to Howth Harbour.
After the successful rescue, the lone sailor was praised for making the right call before the weather conditions worsened ahead of Storm Ashley.
Speaking after the incident, Howth RNLI second coxswain, Ian Sheridan, said: “Given a yellow wind warning is coming into effect at midnight tonight until 3am on Monday associated with Storm Ashley, the sailor did the right thing in calling for help when he did before the weather deteriorates and things could have gotten worse.
“Storm Ashley could lead to dangerous and uncertain conditions as strong winds hit the coasts across Ireland tonight and tomorrow.
‘Stay a safe distance from the water’
“If you plan on visiting the coast, the RNLI advise the public to stay a safe distance from the water as conditions could knock you off your feet or wash you into the sea. It is not worth risking your life.
“Cold water shock is a very real danger for anyone entering Irish waters.
“If you find yourself in trouble unexpectedly in the water, remember to Float to Live; lie back in the water, extend your arms and legs and try to relax as best as you can until you get control of your breathing.
“Remember, if you see someone else in danger in the water, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.
“If you have something that floats that they can hold on to, throw it to them.
“Don’t go in the water yourself – you may end up in difficulty too.”
