Over 30 hikers rescued from Ameland mudflats Sunday morning; Some with hypothermia

A group of 32 waders, including four guides, was rescued after suffering hypothermia symptoms during a trek near Ameland, Dutch authorities said.

Rescue boats from the KNRM lifeboat service could not reach the group because of low water, forcing the Dutch Coast Guard to deploy a helicopter. The final group was eventually brought out by boat once the tide rose, NOS reported.

The Veiligheidsregio Fryslân reported that the waders called for help after experiencing severe chills. “They were quite cold and therefore called for help,” a spokesperson said.

The alarm reached the Coast Guard center around 6:45 p.m. “It does not happen every week that we pick up waders by helicopter,” the Coast Guard said. Such operations occur a few times a year.

All 32 people were taken to the KNRM boathouse on Ameland. There they received showers, warm clothing, and the chance to warm up, the safety region said. An ambulance stood by to examine anyone who needed medical checks.

KNRM officials said the incident left a strong impression on the group. “You start such a walk with a lot of pleasure. Then you do not expect to become hypothermic or to hang from a helicopter,” the organization told NOS. “For many people, that sounds like a dream. But for others it has a big impact.”