A dramatic helicopter rescue off the Sonoma County coast in California ended safely after emergency crews reached a man who was clinging to rocks while being battered by waves.
Authorities said the incident happened near Rocky Point along Highway 1.
Emergency responders received reports of a person stranded on rocks offshore.
When rescue crews arrived, they found the man holding onto a rock as rough surf continued to strike the area.
The Sonoma County Sheriff’s Office helicopter was called to assist.
Because of the difficult terrain and dangerous ocean conditions, the helicopter crew prepared for a long-line rescue.
A tactical flight officer was lowered from the helicopter toward the stranded man.
Despite the rough conditions, the man was able to stand and was secured to the rescue line.
The helicopter then lifted him away from the rocks and transported him to an area where medical personnel were waiting.
Officials said he was evaluated for cold-water exposure and was later released at the scene.
The helicopter crew also checked on two other people who had been spotted on a nearby rock.
Authorities later determined that they were fishing and were not connected to the rescued man.
The incident shows how quickly conditions along the California coast can become dangerous — and how specialized rescue crews can make the difference between tragedy and survival.