More than a dozen boaters were rescued from the Potomac River after they became overwhelmed by a storm Friday evening, according to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service (MCFRS).
The 13 people — on a raft and paddle board — were in the area between Sycamore Landing Road and Riley’s Lock, according to MCFRS Chief Spokesperson Pete Piringer.
They found refuge on land, according to Piringer. The distressed boaters were found at the bottom of a steep incline and were rescued by MCFRS boats.
There were no reported injuries.
The National Weather Service issued a severe thunderstorm warning for parts of Montgomery County on Friday. Over the weekend, MCFRS responded to numerous calls about downed trees and electrical wires, and there were power outages throughout the county.
Feature photo via MCFRS Chief Spokesperson Pete Piringer.
~8p @mcfrs Boats retrieved total 13 ‘distressed’ boaters (raft & paddle board) who had been overwhelmed by storm (heavy rain, fierce wind, thunder & lightning) all 13 people & @mcfrs crews made it to Seneca ramp uninjured & reunification with their transportation occurred, no inj pic.twitter.com/oEjva6XOJc
— Pete Piringer (@mcfrsPIO) July 29, 2023
