Coast Guard Responds To Over 20 Displaced Vessels After Florida Storm

CLEARWATER, Florida - The U.S. Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg responded to reports of over 20 displaced vessels during last weekend's storm.

A vigilant Coast Guard Station Cortez boat crew discovered two sailing vessels trapped against the Cortez Bridge and promptly notified watchstanders at Sector St. Petersburg. 

Racing against the elements, the boat crew swiftly arrived on the scene, successfully locating and rescuing a mariner from one of the stranded vessels. The rescued individual was safely brought back to the Coast Guard station.

Meanwhile, crews from Station St. Petersburg responded to an unmanned and adrift kayak near Howard Franklin Bridge. Despite an extensive search of the area, no distressed individuals were found.

In another incident, the operator of a 34-foot sailboat reported being stuck against the seawall in shallow water near Gulfport Casino. Maintaining constant communication with Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg watchstanders, the operator later confirmed that assistance was no longer required.

Petty Officer 2nd Class Caroline Dotson, a watchstander at Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg command center, emphasized the importance of prompt communication in such situations. 

"In a situation where a vessel becomes adrift, the best course of action is to contact your local Coast Guard sector command center with the description and registration number of your vessel," she said. 

Dotson also urged mariners to stay informed about local weather reports and secure their vessels ahead of anticipated adverse weather conditions