VIDEO: Valley County Search and Rescue responded to an urgent call at approximately 4:00 p.m. on Tuesday after several people became stranded on a drifting sheet of ice on Fort Peck Lake and were unable to get back to shore.
Rescue crews mobilized eight personnel to the scene, deploying an airboat with three responders while five others remained in position on land ready to assist. With help from volunteers using side-by-sides, those trapped on the floating ice were successfully brought safely back to shore.
The incident highlights unpredictable and potentially dangerous ice conditions that can develop this time of year, particularly when fluctuating weather patterns limit the formation of thick, stable ice. Officials say such conditions are expected to persist, and they urge caution for anyone considering venturing onto frozen water.
