A man who survived Hurricane Milton was rescued by the Coast Guard while clinging to a cooler, according to the owner of the sunken boat, Capt. Dave. The owner, Steven Hawley, shared that the captain’s decision to seek refuge in the cooler saved him from potential dangers like sharks or hypothermia.
During the storm, a Coast Guard helicopter crew spotted the man floating on the cooler nearly 30 miles off the coast of Longboat Key, Florida. This was the second time the captain had to be rescued in a matter of days. The first rescue occurred when the boat got stranded, and both the captain and a deckhand were saved.
Despite the challenging circumstances, the captain was found alive and well after Hurricane Milton passed. The boat, however, was lost at sea and will not be recovered. The Coast Guard praised the captain’s survival skills, emphasizing that he endured extreme weather conditions with winds of 75-90 mph and 20-25 foot waves for an extended period.
The rescue operation was deemed successful thanks to the captain’s use of a life jacket, an emergency position indicating locator beacon, and the cooler that kept him afloat until help arrived. The Coast Guard highlighted the importance of being prepared for emergencies at sea and commended the captain for his resourcefulness in a life-threatening situation.
Hurricane Milton left a trail of destruction in Florida, and residents are now beginning the process of recovery and rebuilding. The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of storms at sea and the importance of having proper safety measures in place while navigating treacherous waters.
As we reflect on this harrowing ordeal, it is crucial to acknowledge the bravery and resilience of the captain who defied the odds and survived against all odds. His story is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who face adversity head-on and emerge victorious, even in the face of unimaginable challenges.
