A total of 2,492 people were rescued in 70 operations off the eastern islands of Lesbos, Chios, Samos, Agathonissi, Farmakonissi, Kos and Symi

More than 2,500 migrants have been plucked from the sea in dozens of search and rescue operations off the Greek islands over the weekend.

Coast guard officials said 2,492 people were rescued in 70 operations off the eastern islands of Lesbos, Chios, Samos, Agathonissi, Farmakonissi, Kos and Symi.

Separately, it said a coast guard patrol boat rescued another 13 people spotted in the water near the port of Chios by a local boat. One person was recovered unconscious and transported to a hospital.

The rescues are a result of a relentless flow of people heading for the safety of Europe after facing war and poverty in the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

PA Media