AVILA BEACH, Calif. — Two women were thrown underwater Monday when a humpback whale capsized their kayak while they were taking photos of the large mammals in Avila Beach.
Julie McSorley and a friend were kayaking near the Cal Poly pier when a whale suddenly appeared right beneath them, KSBY reported.
Video appears to show the women inside the giant whale’s mouth, but McSorley said they were only capsized and thrown underwater. In the video, McSorley can be heard screaming before going under water for nearly six seconds. She eventually comes up for air and the friends both ask each other if they are OK. They both reply, “We’re good,” before the video ends.
VIDEO: While some video footage makes it appear as though the women went inside the whale’s mouth, Julie McSorley says their kayak just overturned and they were thrown underwater. https://t.co/jCDecSH6KI
— KSBY (@KSBY) November 3, 2020
Humpback whales are considered an endangered species. They’re active on the surface of the water, making them a favorite for whale watchers.
There have been recent whale sightings close to shore between Morro Bay and Avila Beach, KSBY reported. Wildlife experts said the large mammals are searching for food.
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