The Finnish-made icebreaker Varma was instrumental in rescuing two ice skaters who became stranded on a drifting ice floe near the town of Plienciems, Latvia. The incident occurred late Saturday night and was reported by Latvian media outlet LSM. As the ice floe broke away, the skaters found themselves in a perilous situation, causing them to call for assistance. Varma, being the closest available vessel, responded swiftly to the emergency.

The rescue operation faced significant challenges due to the dark and icy conditions of the Baltic Sea. The skaters attempted to signal for help by waving a flashlight, which increased the difficulty of being located. After enduring a five-hour search, Varma successfully found the skaters several kilometers off the coast at around 1 AM. This rapid response showcases the capabilities and readiness of the icebreaker in emergency situations, particularly during winter months when the sea can become treacherous.

Once located, the skaters were safely brought back to the port of Riga, where they were handed over to medical personnel around 3 AM. The event highlights the risks associated with outdoor winter activities and the importance of having timely rescue operations available, especially in regions prone to severe weather conditions. The teamwork and efficiency demonstrated by the crew of Varma not only saved lives but also reinforced the critical role of maritime rescue services in the Baltic region.