DE SMET, S.D. – Two women floating on a South Dakota lake drowned after the wind suddenly picked up and waves became treacherous, authorities said.
The women, both from outside of South Dakota and both in their 60s, were in the water on flotation devices at Lake Henry Wednesday night, the Kingsbury County Sheriff’s Office said.
A storm hit and authorities believe they were overcome by waves.
Both victims were found on the shore. Their names have not been released.
In a social media post, officials said Lake Preston Fire Department and Kingsbury County Sheriff’s Office officials were out storm watching when one woman was found on the shore and an ambulance was called in.
A second woman was also found on the shore.
CPR was performed on both victims and they were transported to a local hospital. After many life-saving efforts, both female victims were pronounced deceased.
Authorities are still trying to contact their families.
As authorities investigate the deaths, the sheriff warns others to beware of the weather when considering any water activities on Lake Henry.
