Four Friends Missing in Velebitski Channel Amid Severe Storm; Search Underway

A coordinated search and rescue operation is underway for four young Portuguese nationals who went missing in the Velebitski channel amid severe weather conditions. The group reportedly set out in a small inflatable boat from a local camp north of Senj, intending to row towards Senj, but lost contact.

National Center for Coordination of Search and Rescue at Sea (MRCC Rijeka) received a report of the missing individuals early on August 12. The search has so far located an abandoned floating object near the coast of Krk island that matches the description of the missing boat. However, harsh weather, with gusts of up to 60 knots and waves exceeding 2 meters, is significantly hindering the operation.

Efforts are being made to involve available vessels and a "Pilatus PC-9" aircraft to cover a wider search area. Authorities are also gathering information on the ground. The situation highlights the dangers of navigating the Adriatic Sea during adverse weather, especially with small, inflatable craft.

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The search has so far resulted in the discovery of an abandoned floating object, near the coast of Krk island, which matches the description of the missing boat.