4 boaters rescued after low water levels causes boating accident at Smith Mountain Lake
A late-night call sent first responders to a reported boating accident that left four people stranded at Smith Mountain Lake, according to fire officials. The Smith Mountain Lake Marine Volunteer Fire Rescue Department responded to the area of B13 at about 10:30 p.m. on Saturday after receiving the report. Fireboat 11-5 and Fireboat 11-9 arrived at the scene and located a single boat with four occupants. Officials said the vessel had run aground on an exposed shoal because of the lake's low water level. SEE ALSO: Lynchburg officials say water remains safe to drink amid temporary discoloration Fire officials said no one was injured, and first responders took the four stranded individuals back to their home before all responding units cleared the scene. According to Smith Mountain Lake Marine Volunteer Fire Rescue, the lake level dropped to 788 feet again Saturday night, exposing additional hazards for nighttime boaters. "Nighttime navigation can be incredibly difficult, especially without sufficient moonlight to reveal newly exposed shoals," said the department. "We want everyone to enjoy the lake, but please use extra caution while operating your vessel after dark. Even the most experienced boaters can find themselves in trouble during these drought conditions."
Leave a Comment
Popular News
Recent News
Weather
41%
8 MPH
-
28° July 20, 2026 -
34° July 20, 2026
