Two rescued on Porters Island

Two people became stranded late Friday on an inflatable after rough water pushed their boat back towards land. They took refuge on Porters Island, but were soaked and underdressed for prolonged exposure to the conditions and Lake Superior’s chilly temperatures.

The first rescue attempt was mounted on a private vessel by personnel at Fort Wilkins State Park. After the initial effort was unsuccessful, Keweenaw County Sheriff’s deputies were able to get Sea-Doos to the island, even in the face of choppy waves.

The department is reminding residents and visitors alike to closely monitor marine forecasts before heading out onto Lake Superior and other bodies of water. A front passed through Friday bringing scattered thunderstorms and high winds.