Just before 10:30 Monday morning rescue units were dispatched to Inlet Road, near the Burton Island Nature Trail in Rehoboth Beach, for a reported vessel in distress.
A female caller reported being stranded on the backside of Burton Island after her boat drifted away. Initial reports were unclear about whether there were other occupants aboard the boat. The caller later confirmed that a second individual was also on land. Both individuals are currently sheltering in a duck blind.
Rescue crews are facing challenges due to the ongoing snowstorm. Chief officers at the scene have advised all units to proceed with caution, as icy roads and extremely low visibility have made access difficult. Crews are also assessing conditions to determine if launching a boat is feasible under the circumstances.
The U.S. Coast Guard is responding to assist in the rescue efforts. Meanwhile, local crews continue working to make access to the caller. A photo from a nearby DelDOT camera shows the current conditions, showing heavy snow and poor visibility.
Update: Coast Guard has rescued both occupants and fire crews are working to get their boat.