A major search operation is underway after two young women went missing while paddle boarding off the Galway coast.

The search has been ongoing throughout the night after the women failed to return to shore after setting out from Furbough Beach.

Galway RNLI said their lifeboats have been joined by volunteers from the Aran Islands division and the Irish Coastguard.

A number of local vessels are also taking part.

The women, aged 17 and 23-years-old, set out at about 8pm and the alarm was shortly after 10pm.

Residents living close to the coast have been asked to check the shoreline for any sign of the missing women.

Any sightings or information should be reported to the Coast Guard at MRSC Valentia on 112 or 999.

UPDATE: The young women have been found alive this afternoon.