Up to 100 Fishermen Trapped on Drifting Ice Floe in Minnesota Amidst Dangerous Conditions

Urgent Rescue Operation in Minnesota

The Beltrami County sheriff’s office in Minnesota has launched an urgent rescue mission to retrieve a group of 75 to 100 fishermen trapped on an ice floe.

The floe, which broke away from the mainland, has drifted away, leaving the individuals stranded.

Dangerous Ice Conditions

The incident occurred on Upper Red Lake, approximately 200 miles northeast of Fargo, North Dakota, and around 100 miles south of the Canadian border.

Rescuers are racing against time to reach the stranded individuals amidst concerns about the ice’s instability.

Efforts to Guide the Trapped Fishermen

Officials have instructed those stranded on the ice to move towards Roger’s on Red campground, situated on the southeast side of the lake, nearly 15 miles north of Kelliher.

Reports from the campground on December 26 highlighted a significant nine-foot crack in the ice, restricting access. However, as of December 28, the crack had reportedly closed.

Warnings and Previous Incidents

The Beltrami County sheriff, Jason Riggs, had previously cautioned locals about the unusually thin ice conditions. Recent incidents, including two men falling through the ice on an ATV, have emphasized the precariousness of the current ice situation.

Deteriorating Ice Conditions

Authorities attribute the deteriorating ice conditions to recent rain and prolonged above-freezing temperatures, leading to weakened ice across the region.

Recovery teams face challenges in removing ice houses due to the fragile nature of the ice, awaiting colder weather to facilitate safer property retrieval.

Statewide Warnings and Advice

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has issued multiple alerts regarding poor ice conditions statewide.

They emphasize the critical importance of assessing ice thickness, monitoring weather conditions, and seeking updates from area resorts before venturing onto the ice.

Safety Reminders and Concerns

Officials have urged caution, especially during the New Year’s holiday season, stressing that despite traditions, ice conditions remain unpredictable and hazardous.

The recent weather fluctuations have led to unsafe ice thickness for activities like ice fishing.

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