Seven Missing After Sailboat Struck by Whirlwind Off Sicilian Coast

Seven people are missing after a sailboat struck by whirlwind carrying 22 passengers sank off the coast of Palermo, Sicily, in the early hours, according to Italian media reports Among the passengers was an Irish national, whose fate remains uncertain.

(Also read Government Defends Relocation of Ukrainian Refugees Amid Criticism of Disruptive Moves.)

The sailboat, flying a British flag, encountered a severe whirlwind and rough seas at sunrise, leading to the tragic sinking. Italy’s Coast Guard and firefighters acted swiftly, rescuing 15 people, including a child. 

All the rescued individuals, reported to be in stable condition, include two Anglo-French citizens, a New Zealander, a Sri Lankan, and the Irish national, with the remaining passengers being British.

Sailboat Struck by Whirlwind Found 50 Meters Underwater; Search for Missing Passengers Continues

The vessel now rests approximately 50 metres underwater, about half a mile off the Sicilian coast. Divers from the fire department continue their search for the missing passengers. As of now, the British foreign ministry has not commented on the incident.

This tragedy highlights the unpredictable nature of sea travel and the perilous conditions that can arise suddenly. The search efforts continue, with hopes that more survivors may be found.