Fifty people have been reportedly airlifted off of Bolivar Peninsula in Texas to High Island after wind and rain from Hurricane Ike forced their exit.

The Coast Guard began airlifting residents from their homes this morning at Bolivar Penninsula. Coast Guard Air Station Houston dispatched a HH-65C rescue helicopter to transport the people to High Island.

High Island resident George Kahla said the helicopter landed at the high school football field and some were taking shelter in area churches.

A mandatory evacuation started at 7 a.m. this morning for the Peninsula. The Crystal Beach Annex is a pick up point for those with special needs, according to the Galveston County Emergency Management Office.

The ferry will close at 11 p.m. tonight.

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