A sea search for a missing diver off the Welsh coast has been called off, while the search on land continues. The alarm was raised on Thursday afternoon after reports of a diver in distress off Porth Ysgaden in Gwynedd. Porth Ysgaden, located on the Llyn Peninsula, is a popular diving spot and a sheltered cove. HM Coastguard, a fixed-wing aircraft, and local RNLI crews were involved in the search until Thursday evening.
Rescue teams were quickly mobilised to the scene, with aircraft, lifeboats, and local police joining in the search efforts. Despite the extensive search operation, no sign of the missing diver was found. The Maritime and Coastguard Agency confirmed that the search was concluded just after midnight on Friday. While the sea search has been called off, the police and HM Coastguard are continuing their search efforts on land, and investigations are ongoing.
HM Coastguard released a statement on Friday morning stating, “The search for a possible missing diver has been stood down. HM Coastguard coordinated the search for a possible diver in difficulty off Porth Ysgaden, Gwynedd.” The coordinated search involved multiple agencies and teams, including a coastguard helicopter, fixed-wing aircraft, RNLI lifeboat, and various coastguard rescue teams and police units. However, despite their combined efforts, the missing diver remains unaccounted for.
The incident serves as a reminder of the risks associated with diving and the importance of following proper safety procedures. Porth Ysgaden is known for its scenic beauty and attracts many divers, but the waters can be unpredictable and challenging. Authorities are urging anyone partaking in water activities to exercise caution and be well-prepared. While the sea search has been halted, the determination to locate the missing diver remains unwavering, with search efforts now focused on the surrounding land areas.
As the investigation continues, authorities are appealing to anyone with information about the missing diver or the circumstances leading to their disappearance to come forward. The community is also encouraged to stay vigilant and report any sightings or clues that may assist in the search operation. The search for the missing diver off the Welsh coast serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers inherent in water sports and the dedicated efforts of emergency services in ensuring public safety.