Three children dead after boat capsizes during storm in Wisconsin | Wisconsin
Three children died and seven others had to be rescued by emergency responders when a boat capsized on Wisconsin’s Lake Geneva during bad weather on the eve of the United States’ centennial celebration, according to officials.
The Lake Geneva police department says a recreational motorboat with 10 passengers on board, including four children, sank Friday afternoon as it “attempted to get to safety as weather conditions worsened” in the middle of a severe, sudden storm. in question in a statement.
First responders rescued one child and six adults, but three children were reported missing. They were later rescued but were pronounced dead after rescuers administered life-saving measures.
Authorities confirmed that all four children were wearing life jackets when it capsized, which authorities said was “a reminder of how quickly severe weather conditions can develop on area waterways.”
“We encourage all boaters to closely monitor weather forecasts, be alert to changing atmospheric conditions, and immediately seek safe harbor when threatening weather conditions approach,” the police department said.
Police said the identities of the victims could not be immediately released because the investigation into the capsizing is ongoing.
Lake Geneva officials declared a state of emergency due to intense storm conditions on Friday.
Storm damage was reported in the Lake Geneva area, a popular summer vacation destination. The small southern Wisconsin town attracts tourists every year, especially during the summer months, due to its proximity to Lake Geneva.
High winds toppled trees and power lines and damaged buildings in the area, local sheriff Tom Hausner said at a news conference.
Hausner added that authorities received numerous 911 calls reporting damage as well as people trapped in buildings asking for help. Hausner noted that deputies were delayed in responding to some calls due to downed power lines and other debris.
“Power lines are everywhere. We urge people to stay away,” Hausner said at the press conference.
At least one person was slightly injured after being hit by fallen trees.
Friday’s storm comes as much of the United States faces extreme heat heading into Saturday’s Independence Day holiday. One estimated 250 million people People in the UK have been told to expect dangerous levels of temperatures as temperatures rise across the country over the July 4th weekend marking the 250th anniversary of the signing of the US Declaration of Independence.
