Dramatic rescue: California woman survives 15 hours stranded on top of overturned car in floodwaters (WATCH)
By Sunita Iyer | First Published Jan 25, 2024, 3:41 PM ISTDramatic rescue unfolds as a California woman survives 15 hours stranded on top of her overturned car in rushing floodwaters, highlighting the unpredictability of weather dangers and the resilience of both the victim and emergency responders.
In a harrowing incident that unfolded in Livermore, California, a woman faced a perilous 15-hour ordeal stranded on top of her overturned car in rushing floodwaters. The rescue, carried out by authorities after a passerby spotted her predicament, highlights the unpredictable dangers posed by inclement weather conditions. The incident occurred on Monday around 7:30 pm when the woman attempted to cross a flooded road in the 7000 block of Del Valle Road. Underestimating the depth of the water, her car was swept away, causing it to overturn. Subsequently, the woman found herself in the frigid waters, swimming to the top of her overturned car.
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Compounding the already precarious situation, the woman had lost her cell phone during the vehicle's overturning, rendering her unable to call for assistance. Officials from the Alameda County Fire Department revealed that the area also had poor coverage, further impeding any communication efforts.
Throughout the night, the stranded woman endured the cold conditions, clinging to the top of her car for approximately 15 hours. Her challenging predicament came to light the next morning when a camper in the vicinity noticed her stranded on the upturned vehicle and promptly sought help.
Firefighters, initially preparing for a ladder rescue using a truck, received assistance from the California Highway Patrol, which opted for a helicopter rescue. Video footage captured the dramatic moment when the helicopter lowered personnel to lift the woman to safety, with turbulent water streaming down the roadway.
Battalion Chief Kent Carlin commented on the rescue, stating, "The water was significantly rapid when we arrived, I can only imagine that last night it was flowing a little heavier."
Despite enduring a night of cold weather and exposure, the woman exhibited remarkable resilience and did not display any signs of injury, according to authorities. The timely intervention and coordination between emergency responders ensured her safe rescue from a potentially life-threatening situation.
The California woman's survival story serves as a stark reminder of the unpredictable dangers associated with adverse weather conditions. Her 15-hour ordeal on top of an overturned car in rushing floodwaters underscores the importance of preparedness and the critical role of timely rescue operations in ensuring the safety of individuals facing such challenges. The incident highlights the resilience of both the victim and the emergency responders who worked together to bring about a successful rescue.
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