Desperate search suspended for missing swimmer at Maroubra Beach
Lifesavers who witnessed the man enter the surf raised the alarm when he failed to resurface.
A desperate search for a missing swimmer has been suspended as wild weather and fading light hamper rescue efforts.
A man in his 30s entered the water at South Maroubra Beach in Sydney’s south about 4pm on Sunday but never re-emerged, sparking a massive emergency response.
Lifesavers who witnessed the man enter the surf raised the alarm when he failed to resurface.
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By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.Multiple helicopter crews were deployed to scour the area, while jet skis and water police joined the frantic search operation.
The shark alarm was sounded to evacuate the entire beach as emergency services flooded the area.
However, deteriorating conditions have forced authorities to suspend the search until first light on Monday.
Reporter Lucy McLeod, who was at the scene, said visibility has become shocking as the storm moves in.
“We saw a lot of helicopters in the sky, but they had to be grounded as well because of worsening conditions,” McLeod said.
“We are expecting a storm to roll through, and as light fades, authorities have had to make that tough decision to suspend the search.”
Originally published on 7NEWS
