Two paddleboarders faced a terrifying fight for survival after being swept nearly two miles out to sea in a dramatic incident off the coast of Nantucket that required an extensive multi-agency rescue operation.
The harrowing ordeal began around 4:30 PM on Tuesday when Somwong Kyomitmaitee, 29, and King Shing, 28, found themselves battling against powerful currents that carried them dangerously far from the shore of the exclusive Massachusetts island.
The Desperate Struggle for Survival
As darkness began to descend and water temperatures dropped, the pair fought desperately to stay together and maintain hope. For five agonizing hours, they battled fatigue and the relentless pull of the Atlantic Ocean, their situation growing increasingly dire with each passing minute.
"They were exhausted, they were cold, and they were very far from shore," reported one rescue official familiar with the operation. "The conditions were working against them in every possible way."
Massive Rescue Operation Launched
Concerned bystanders who spotted the struggling paddleboarders immediately alerted authorities, triggering a massive emergency response. The US Coast Guard launched both boat and air assets, while local police and fire departments scrambled to coordinate what would become a race against time.
The rescue teams faced challenging conditions as they searched the growing darkness, with the paddleboarders' small profiles making them exceptionally difficult to spot among the ocean swells.
A Race Against Darkness and Cold
As water temperatures hovered around 60°F (15.5°C), the risk of hypothermia became a serious concern. Emergency medical teams stood ready on shore, prepared to treat the victims for exposure and exhaustion once located.
The successful location and recovery of both individuals represented a triumph of coordinated emergency response under pressure.
Safety Lessons for Water Enthusiasts
This near-tragedy serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can accompany water sports, even in seemingly calm conditions. Safety experts emphasize several critical precautions for paddleboarders:
- Always wear a personal flotation device
- Carry a waterproof communication device
- Check weather and tide conditions thoroughly before entering the water
- Never paddleboard alone
- Inform others of your planned route and expected return time
Both survivors were transported to Nantucket Cottage Hospital for evaluation and treatment, where they were reported to be in stable condition following their traumatic experience at sea.
