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HONOLULU – Two divers are safe ashore after strong currents pulled them eight miles east of Leleiwi Point, Big Island, Saturday.
Watchstanders at Coast Guard Sector Honolulu Command Center received notification at 10:22 a.m. of two divers missing from 19-foot recreational boat Tigger Too.An HC-130 Hercules airplane crew diverted from a scheduled mission at 10:35 a.m. to begin a search. The Hercules crew located the missing divers four miles from their original location and dropped two smoke flares. Their location was then relayed to the boat’s captain who was able to rescue them. Both men are reported to be in good condition.
Ocean currents around the Main Hawaiian Islands can be extremely hazardous and can quickly overcome even the most skilled swimmers. At the onset of high surf and severe weather these conditions can become even more dangerous. The Coast Guard advises all ocean-goers to check weather conditions before heading out, never go out alone, file a float plan and know their limits.