Douglas County (trfnews.i234.me) — A woman is safe after her snowmobile went through the ice on Lake Ida Wednesday night, according to authorities.
Douglas County deputies were called to the southwest bay of Lake Ida around 6 p.m.
The area is between Breezy Point and Lakeview Point, officials said.
The woman jumped free
Authorities identified the woman as 24-year-old Alycia Stotesbery of Alexandria.
Officials say she jumped from the snowmobile as it broke through the ice.
She was not trapped in the water, according to the report.
Officials say she was able to walk to shore on her own.
The drone team helped locate the machine
The Douglas County drone team was called to assist, officials said.
They helped locate the snowmobile after it went through the ice.
Authorities did not report any other injuries.
Details on recovery efforts were not released in the initial report.
Ice safety warning
The sheriff’s office is reminding people that ice conditions can still be dangerous.
Officials say warmer days and colder nights can change ice fast.
Snow cover can also hide thin spots.
Pressure ridges and moving water can weaken ice, even in cold weather.
Deputies urge riders to use extreme caution on any lake ice.
They also urge you to tell someone where you are going.
Officials say you should share your planned route and return time.
They also encourage riders to watch for changing conditions.
Helpful resources
For ice safety tips, review the Minnesota DNR guidance here: Ice safety (Minnesota DNR).
For cold water survival information, see: Cold water safety (National Weather Service).
For general county information, visit: Douglas County, Minnesota.
I’m Chris Harper reporting for TRF News.