Rescue authorities launched a major operation after multiple distress flares were reported in Møre og Romsdal's coastal waters. The incident occurred during poor weather conditions along Norway's western coastline.
Emergency responders deployed two rescue helicopters, a rescue cruiser, fire department boats, and coastal authority vessels. The Norwegian coastal ferry Hurtigruten also participated in the search operation.
Rescue leader Andreas Ingsøy confirmed the substantial response in a Tuesday evening statement. "They set off distress flares toward the sea, then drove further and launched another flare," Ingsøy said. "It's good they reported themselves, but we mobilized significant resources because of the bad weather and we take all reports seriously."
Police confirmed the operation concluded at 10:52 PM local time. Officers on scene located four individuals who admitted firing distress flares without being in actual danger.
This incident highlights the serious consequences of misusing emergency signals. Rescue operations in Norway's challenging coastal waters require substantial resources and put responders at risk, particularly during poor weather conditions.
Norwegian rescue services regularly respond to emergencies along the country's extensive coastline. The Western Norway region where this occurred features numerous fjords and islands that present unique challenges for maritime rescue operations.