Five Ocean Goers Rescued at Ukumehame, Swept Out by Gusty Winds

Ukumehame (file image) courtesy: Asa Ellison

Rescue crews on Maui responded to a report of two standup paddleboarders and three kayakers who were reportedly being swept out to sea on Saturday afternoon, June 23, 2018 in the area of Ukumehame.

Upon arrival, the Coast Guard confirmed four individuals were assisted by a private vessel and were accounted for.

Units continued searching for a fifth individual.  A Jetski unit was able to locate this last individual and safely brought them to shore from approximately two miles out.

Maui Fire Services Chief Rylan Yatsushiro said all parties involved were uninjured and did not require medical attention.

The Maui Fire Department wants to remind the public that ocean conditions can change in an instant. “It is important to pay close attention to your surroundings, and consult a lifeguard about ocean conditions if one is available. If in doubt, don’t go out,” said Yatsushiro.

Maui fire crews were called to the ocean rescue while working on a mountain rescue at Makamakaʻole Gulch. Once the situation at Makamakaʻole was secure, Rescue 10 aboard Air 1 responded directly to assist with the Ukumehame ocean rescue.

Engine 3 out of Lahaina, a Jetski unit from Kīhei, and a Coast Guard unit from Māʻalaea co-responded to the Ukumehame incident.