Lough Ree lifeboat called to assist man during Storm Diana

The Lough Ree RNLI lifeboat was called out in "extremely rough" conditions to assist a person who got into difficulty on the water during Storm Diana today (Wednesday). 

The incident took place near St John's Wood in South Roscommon. 

At 10.35am, lifeboat volunteers were contacted by the man, who had sought refuge the previous evening, due to failing light, at the floating jetty off the shore of St John’s Wood. 

Due to worsening conditions overnight and this morning, the man contacted the Lough Ree RNLI lifeboat to request assistance. 

Its inshore lifeboat, The Eric Rowse, was launched at 10.48 and the crew made their way to the scene.  

Conditions on the lake were extremely rough with Storm Diana in full strength.  Winds were storm force eight from the south, with 2m waves, making for a very bumpy trip up the lake.

Upon arrival on scene, the crew found the casualty to be uninjured, wearing his lifejacket and wet weather clothing, and in good form. 

Having ensured that the casualty vessel was well-secured, the gentleman was brought onto The Eric Rowse and brought back to the lifeboat station in Coosan Point, Athlone.

Speaking after the call-out, volunteer Lifeboat Helm, Tom Bradbury, said; "Conditions can change on the lake very quickly, especially at this time of year.  

"This gentleman did exactly as we advise, when light started failing last night he sought a suitable mooring for the night and when he awoke to worsening conditions this morning he requested assistance.  

"We would always advise people using the lake to check the weather forecast before heading out on the water and to always wear a lifejacket," he concluded.