Lifeboats Scramble After Reports of Stranded Pair Clinging to Upside-Down Boat in Portsmouth Harbour
Emergency services flooded Portsmouth Harbour this evening following reports that two people were trapped in the water, holding onto an upturned boat. The busy shipping lanes saw a rapid response as the Independent Gosport and Fareham Inshore Rescue lifeboat was launched alongside Portsmouth and Hillhead Coastguard teams.
Rapid Response After Distress Call
The Gosport lifeboat was on scene within ten minutes after a third party alerted UK Coastguard operations. The pair had reportedly been stranded for around an hour, caught out by the tide and mud. Sources say the duo tried to crawl back to land on their bellies after playing on a surfboard.
Intense Search Operation Ends Safely
Rescue crews deployed FLAIR camera technology during an extensive sea search, while coastguard teams scoured the shoreline on foot. After a tense two-hour hunt, the rescue teams were stood down. Thankfully, the pair made it safely back to shore without injuries.
This dramatic incident is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by tides and mudflats in busy harbours like Portsmouth.
