Ten people rescued from Guelph Lake following sudden thunderstorm

Guelph Lake Conservation Area on May 28, 2024. (Shelby Knox/CTV Kitchener)

Crews rescued 10 people who were stranded by a severe storm in Guelph, Ont.

Strong winds, lightning and rain swept through the Guelph Lake Conservation Area late Wednesday afternoon and created dangerous conditions on the water.

The Guelph Fire Department said they received a call about two paddleboarders in distress at 5:09 p.m. and dispatched their Specialty Water Rescue Team, along with firefighters from three other stations.

“After the water rescue boat launched, responders quickly located two individuals in distress – one clinging to a kayak and another stranded in open water on the opposite side of the island,” a media release from the city said.

Rescuers then spotted eight other people around the lake who also needed help getting back to the main dock.

The city said the Specialty Water Rescue Team did a sweep of the lake and discovered two paddleboarders who had been blown ashore after losing their equipment, while Ontario Provincial Police located a mother and child who were reported missing while out kayaking on the water. The pair were found safe on the main beach.

Searches were conducted, both on land and on the water, to make sure everyone was accounted for.

No injuries were reported to Guelph-Wellington Paramedic Services.

“I thank all Guelph Fire Department staff who responded on the scene with speed and compassion,” Deputy Fire Chief Jonathan Wilker said in a media release. “I also wish to thank the Grand River Conservation Authority staff, who were first on scene and provided critical assistance in directing responders to the initial rescue locations.”

The fire department also shared tips for staying safe on the water, especially during severe storms. They recommended:

• Wearing a properly fitted lifejacket or personal flotation device (PFD) at all times.
• Checking weather conditions before and during water activities.
• Returning to shore immediately if severe weather approaches.
• Ensuring appropriate safety equipment is readily available.