Drone Technology Saves the Day: Kayaker Rescued After Going Missing in Lumber River

A 22-year-old kayaker was successfully rescued on Saturday night after being separated from his companion on the Lumber River in Lumberton, N.C., during a severe thunderstorm. The Robeson County Sheriff’s Office received a call around 8:30 p.m., and upon arrival, they learned that the man had not been in contact for over two hours.

The kayaker, who had lost all his belongings, including his cell phone, after falling out of his kayak, was eventually located about a quarter mile from Lowe Road, thanks to the use of drone technology.

Thermal Imaging Drones in Action

To aid in the search, the Robeson County Aviation Division deployed three drones equipped with thermal cameras. These drones played a crucial role in the operation, as their advanced imaging capabilities allowed them to detect the missing kayaker in the dark and dense riverside environment. The thermal cameras on the drones were able to pick up the heat signature of the kayaker, making it possible for rescuers to locate him swiftly.

Once the drones identified the kayaker’s location, rescue teams from Deep Branch Fire/Rescue and Lumberton Rescue & EMS were able to reach the stranded man using rescue boats, ultimately bringing him to safety.

DroneXL’s Take

This incident highlights the growing importance of drones in emergency response operations, particularly in search and rescue missions. The ability of drones to cover large areas quickly and use thermal imaging to detect individuals in challenging conditions underscores their value in saving lives. As drone technology continues to advance, we can expect to see even more successful rescues like this one.

For more stories about how drones are being used in life-saving operations, check out our Drones for Good category, where we highlight various instances of drones making a positive impact around the world.

Photo courtesy of Robeson County Sheriff’s Office.