Coast Guard crews rescued three capsized kayakers near Clatsop Spit at the Columbia River entrance, Tuesday afternoon, Nov. 10. All three kayakers were picked up and delivered to awaiting emergency medical services. A 47-foot Motor Life Boat crew from Coast Guard Station Cape Disappointment in Ilwaco, Washington, rescued the female kayaker, safely transporting her to waiting EMS back at the station in Ilwaco. An MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter crew from Coast Guard Air Station Astoria, in Warrenton, rescued the two male kayakers, safely transporting them to waiting EMS at the air station. The crews spotted the distressed kayakers about 1:55 p.m. while conducting Advanced Helicopter Rescue training together near the entrance to the Columbia River. An MH-65 Dolphin helicopter crew, from Air Station Port Angeles, Washington, also participated in the rescue efforts by spotting the female kayaker in the vicinity of buoy 10 and helping the boatcrew locate her. “Regardless of how nice it looks out, always check marine weather reports before you hit the water, especially right now as various small craft advisories and gale warnings are in effect all across Oregon and Washington,” said Lt. Adriana Gaenzle, operations controller at Coast Guard Sector Columbia River. “Outstanding work on behalf of the crews for spotting and quickly addressing what could have easily become a disastrous situation.” Weather on scene was 8 to 10-foot seas, 10-mph winds, and an air and water temperature of 56 F.
