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Two people are confirmed dead and several more are missing after two separate boats capsized in increasingly dangerous winds off the coast of Northern California’s Bodega Bay in recent days.
Forecasters warned that the strong winds were expected to worsen through at least Wednesday, with multiple warnings in place across the state for both shore and mariners.
On Saturday night, around 10 p.m., authorities responded to concerns about a 21-foot boat that was not returning as expected. According to the Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office, three adults and three minors were on board the boat, who were out crabbing. After 3 p.m., there was no news of anyone on the boat, so rescue teams began searching in the dark of night.
Crews found the wreckage of the boat along the shore, and one person was found alive and treated, the sheriff’s office said. Another missing boater, Johnny Fomathepe II, 17, was found dead.
Less than 48 hours later, around 7 a.m. Monday, officials said they received another report of a capsized boat in Bodega Bay. Teams are still at sea searching for the missing boat crew from Saturday’s incident and were able to quickly respond to the second boating accident. Officials said there were two men on board the boat, one of whom died shortly after being discovered.
Authorities said Monday they were continuing to search for the five boaters who have yet to be found.
“Current ocean conditions are dangerous, with large swells and strong winds expected this afternoon and evening,” the sheriff’s office warned. “We encourage everyone to be aware of the anticipated situation and to exercise caution.”
The National Weather Service has issued high wind warnings and high surf advisories for the entire Northern California coast, saying ocean conditions are especially dangerous for inexperienced sailors and small boat operators. From Piedras Blancas Point north of San Simeon to Cape Mendocino, forecasters are warning of dangerous winds through at least Wednesday, with gusts up to 40 knots (about 45 mph) and swells. is expected to reach up to 14 feet.
The National Weather Service warned that “strong winds could create dangerous waters, capsize or damage ships, and reduce visibility.”
The situation comes as a large offshore wind event is predicted for much of California’s coastline, with red flags and fire warnings in effect until Thursday. Pacific Gas & Electric and Southern California Edison are expected to cut power to up to 240,000 customers to minimize the possibility of fires caused by dry, strong winds.
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