A kayaker drowned in Bow Lake on Friday afternoon after strong winds likely capsized her boat, state police said Monday.
The body of Victoria Rosenberg, 62, of Strafford, was found in the vicinity of Loon Island about two hours after a distress call went out at 1:59 p.m., according to police.
Nine agencies responded to the distress call, state police said, and Rosenberg had been wearing a lifejacket. But weather conditions included 20 to 25 mph winds – with gusts up to 50 mph – 2 ½-foot swells and a water temperature of 53 degrees. Drugs and alcohol did not appear to be a factor in the drowning, police said.
“It’s vitally important that people dress for the water temperature and existing conditions, not just the air temperature,” New Hampshire State Police Marine Patrol Sgt. Joshua Dirth said in a statement. “Even experienced boaters may encounter an emergency that can unfold in seconds – please take the necessary precautions before entering or being near the water.”
— Lola Duffort