After three months adrift across the Pacific, a tiny 20‑foot skiff finally surfaced near Kiribati, saving five lives but leaving four still unaccounted for.
Key points
- Five survivors were rescued after drifting more than 3,300 miles for three months in a small skiff.
- Four passengers are still missing, and authorities continue to search for them.
- Survivors were severely dehydrated and malnourished but are now receiving medical care.
Five people – two of them children – were pulled to safety on Sunday off Fanning Island in Kiribati, ending a three‑month ordeal that began when their 20‑foot skiff drifted eastward from the Federated States of Micronesia, according to NBC News and the Associated Press.
The U.S. Coast Guard in Guam confirmed that the skiff, which had been reported missing after failing to return to Ruo Island on July 30, was carrying nine occupants. A ten‑day search covering roughly 33,000 square miles failed to locate the vessel until local villagers rescued the five survivors.
Rescue off Fanning Island
Kiribati lawmaker Kaotitaake Rakoroa said the rescued group is now being cared for by a pastor on the island, while nursing officer Paukin Tororo reported that all five were severely dehydrated and malnourished, receiving intravenous fluids and showing signs of recovery.
Four passengers remain missing. When asked about their fate, the Coast Guard said it is still gathering information and will provide an update as soon as possible. Governor Alexander Narruhn of Micronesia’s Chuuk state expressed gratitude for the rescue and continued prayers for the missing companions.
Survivors' health and care
The nine passengers had been attempting a one‑hour crossing between the islands of Murilo and Ruo when a storm forced them off course, setting them on a drift that ultimately spanned an estimated 3,350 miles before the recent rescue.
Reader questions
How far did the skiff travel before the rescue?
The vessel is estimated to have drifted about 3,350 miles east from the Federated States of Micronesia before being rescued off Kiribati.
How many people were rescued and how many remain missing?
Five people, including two children, were rescued; four of the original nine occupants are still missing.
What is the condition of the rescued individuals?
All five rescued individuals were severely dehydrated and malnourished but are now on intravenous drips and showing signs of recovery.
Source: nbcnews.com
