Article - By Captain Eric Mein
Tragedy on Lake Tahoe: A Boater’s Wake-Up Call
June 24, 2025
By Captain Eric Mein — West Marine Pro Crew Member & Owner, Topside Boat Training
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Over the weekend of June 21, a powerful and fast-moving thunderstorm swept across the southwest shore of Lake Tahoe, capsizing a 27-foot Chris-Craft boat near D.L. Bliss State Park. Tragically, eight lives were lost in this devastating incident.
This heartbreaking event is a sobering reminder that as boaters, we must always be prepared and vigilant — no matter how calm conditions may appear.
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What Happened — and Why Boats Are So Vulnerable in Storms
So, what should the boaters have done? It's easy to ask — much harder to answer in the moment. In rough weather, vessels naturally want to turn stern-first into the wind. However, most boaters try to keep the bow facing the waves. When the boat pivots unexpectedly, it can expose the broadside to the wind and waves — which is precisely what makes capsizing more likely. This is largely what happened near D.L. Bliss that Saturday.
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What to Do If You’re Caught in a Storm
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Life Jackets on Everyone
This is non-negotiable. If you’re not wearing one before the storm hits, put it on immediately. -
Stay Calm
Panic spreads fast. The skipper sets the tone. Keep everyone seated and as calm as possible. -
Assess the Storm
Identify where the storm is coming from and look for calmer water — not necessarily land. -
Bow Into the Wind
Keep the bow facing into the wind and waves. A properly positioned boat can ride out heavy weather more safely than one caught broadside. -
Land Is Not Always Your Friend
In storms, trying to dock or beach the vessel is risky. Stay in open water if it's safer, and keep control of the boat’s orientation.
Boating Preparedness: What Every Boater Should Do
Have a Float Plan
A float plan outlines key trip details:
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Who is on board
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Where you’re going and when
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What time you expect to return
Share it with someone ashore. For example: “We’ll be on Lake Tahoe Marina at 9 a.m. and back by 4 p.m.” When you return, send a quick “We’re back” message to cancel the plan. If something goes wrong, this basic communication could save lives.
Check — and Watch — the Weather
Always check the forecast before leaving, but don’t stop there. Constantly observe conditions. If whitecaps form or winds increase, head back early. Use tools like:
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Weather apps
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VHF radio (NOAA channels)
It’s the law — and common sense. A properly fitting life jacket should be available for every person aboard. If the weather turns, have everyone put one on immediately.
Know the Risks of Hypothermia
On June 21, Tahoe’s water was below 55°F. Sudden immersion in cold water can trigger cold shock — rapid breathing, panic, and loss of muscle control, often within seconds.
Remember the 1-10-1 Rule:
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1 minute: Control your breathing
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10 minutes: Use that time for self-rescue
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1 hour: If still in water, adopt the heat escape position (knees to chest) to preserve warmth
Have Reliable Communication Tools
Every boat should have a VHF radio, not just a cellphone. The Coast Guard monitors Channel 16 for emergencies. Know how to report your GPS location. You should also store the Lake Tahoe Coast Guard number (530-583-4433) in your phone.
Stay Calm and Lead
If you’re the skipper, take control:
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Instruct everyone to put on life jackets
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Keep passengers seated and balanced
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Explain the plan clearly and involve others — it helps reduce panic and might generate good ideas
Boating is one of life’s greatest joys — but it comes with serious responsibility. What happened at Lake Tahoe is a tragedy. Let it also serve as a wake-up call to plan ahead, respect the water, and always prioritize safety.
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More Info: NYT Article:https://www.nytimes.com/2025/06/24/us/lake-tahoe-deaths-weather.html