Two other compatriots treated for hypothermia
An elderly Chinese tourist died yesterday after being swept up by a strong wave hitting Lagoa beach, in Póvoa de Varzim.
The 70-year-old woman was in the company of two others (a man and a woman) also Chinese and elderly, who were equally dragged into the sea. If it hadn’t been for quick-thinking young witnesses, the scenario could have been a lot worse.
According to reports, the young people rushed to the trio’s rescue, with the aid of a lifesaving buoy that was sited on the beach.
They managed to get all three out of the water, but the woman who died was already in a great deal of distress. Emergency services delivered CPR on the way to hospital, but she could not be saved.
The other two compatriots were transported for treatment at a nearby health centre, both suffering from hypothermia.
The incident was reported to authorities at 5.30pm.
Tragically, authorities are always warning people not to walk close enough to the water to be ‘caught unawares’ by rogue waves. The winter sea can be treacherous, and very quick. ND
