Girvan Lifeboat's volunteer crew launched into extremely dangerous conditions during the early hours of Sunday, 25 October, after receiving reports of a person in the water at Ayr.
The crew were paged for an immediate launch at 12.37am, as Storm Boelo battered Ayrshire with winds reaching Force 11 and potentially exceeding Force 12 in the Girvan Harbour area.
Force 11 winds are classified as a violent storm, while Force 12 conditions are classified as hurricane-force winds.
Despite the severe weather, volunteer crew members quickly made their way to Girvan Lifeboat Station after receiving the emergency call.
The crew were informed by launch authorities that a person was reportedly in the water at Ayr, prompting an immediate response.
As they prepared to launch, crew members had to navigate debris scattered across the harbour jetty by the storm and high tide before boarding the Shannon-class all-weather lifeboat, Elizabeth and Gertrude Allan.
With engines running and mooring ropes released, the lifeboat departed Girvan Harbour and headed out into the storm.
However, shortly after launching, the crew received a cancellation and stand-down request from Belfast Coastguard.
The lifeboat subsequently returned to Girvan Harbour, where it was safely secured alongside its berth. Following a debrief, the volunteer crew were able to return home.
Girvan Lifeboat Operations Manager John Gourlay praised the dedication of the volunteers, highlighting their willingness to respond in some of the most challenging weather conditions.
He said the launch was a testament to the Girvan crew, who answered the call without hesitation and put to sea at the height of Storm Boelo.
He added that lifeboat crews across the country share the same commitment to responding whenever a call for help is received.
The incident highlights the challenging conditions faced by emergency responders as Storm Boelo continues to affect the region.