3 Saved In Overnight Swift Water Rescue Amid IE Flooding

INLAND EMPIRE, CA — San Bernardino County Fire Department's Swift Water Rescue Team saved three people trapped atop their car overnight, and the feat was captured on video.

Shortly before 12:45 a.m. Monday, firefighters responded to the area of Kenbrook Road, just west of Cajon Boulevard in the town of Devore. There, three people awaited rescue under pouring rain as a massive fast-moving flood raged, making rescue difficult to impossible, according to firefighters.

It took over two hours for the rescue team to reach the trapped victims, according to reports from the fire department. The three remained trapped for hours, first inside their car, then rising water forced them to climb outside their windows onto the car's roof, and ultimately they were forced into a nearby tree where they awaited rescue.

At 2 a.m., they reported an "extremely hazardous flow rate and limited to non-existent access hampered efforts. Ultimately, the team was able to retrieve all three victims safely to the other side, one of which was evaluated for hypothermia, according to the department.

"Water levels are so high and moving so fast. This is one of the most difficult rescues I've ever witnessed," Carlos shared. "I was so cold and drenched I had to go back to the car. I can't imagine what those people are going through out there."

They still have not been able to rescue anyone. Water levels are so high and moving so fast this is one of the most difficult rescues I’ve ever witnessed.

I was so cold and drenched. I had to go back to the car. I can’t imagine what those people are going through out there.… pic.twitter.com/J3M9tYqC5G
— FirePhotoGirl (@FirePhotoGirl) February 5, 2024

According to a department spokesperson, none of the three were injured; however, according to Carlos, all three were taken to awaiting ambulances.