The U.S. Coast Guard has launched an urgent search and rescue operation for five people after their fishing vessel capsized in stormy seas off Alaska’s southeastern coast early Sunday morning.
The 50-foot fishing vessel Wind Walker issued a mayday distress call at approximately 12:10 a.m. local time near Point Couverden, southwest of Juneau. Communications ceased after the initial distress signal, Coast Guard officials reported.
Search efforts have been hampered by severe weather conditions, including winds reaching 60 mph and 6-foot seas. The area remains under a winter storm warning, with heavy snowfall further complicating rescue attempts.
First responders discovered seven cold-water immersion suits and two strobe lights floating in the search area. The AMHS Hubbard ferry, which intercepted the initial distress call, was first to arrive at the scene.
Coast Guard assets deployed include an MH-60 Jayhawk helicopter and a response boat. While sources familiar with the vessel’s operations indicate five people were aboard, authorities have not yet confirmed the exact number of crew members.
The Wind Walker’s last known position was in Icy Strait, just south of Point Couverden. The Coast Guard continues to coordinate search efforts in the Gulf of Alaska despite challenging winter conditions.
