Terrifying Video Shows Rescue Of Tucson Woman And Dog During Flood
By Ginny Reese
August 17, 2021
An Arizona woman and her dog were both stranded on top of a car as floodwaters rushed by, reported AZ Family. The rescue happened around 8 p.m. on Saturday evening in Tucson.
Crews couldn't reach the car by foot since the water was rising so quickly. In addition, a helicopter couldn't reach the pair due to the nearby power lines.
Crews with the Tucson Fire Department were finally able to extend their ladder far enough to reach them after multiple failed attempts. TFD delivered a rescue ring and a life jacket to the woman.
According to rescue crews, the conditions were extremely dangerous for drivers. Crews say to never drive in flooded areas. "It's not wise. A semi-truck wouldn't get through it, a monster truck wouldn't get through it. I'm always worried people go through there because they want to save time. What if they have children or animals, which evidently she had last night."
Northwest Fire Department wrote on Twitter, "The woman & dog were pulled to safety. The depth, speed and other hazards in the water made this a difficult and dangerous for all involved."
Northwest Fire posted a video and photos of the rescue.
Check out the nail-biting moment below.
(1/4) Around 8 p.m. Saturday, August 14, Northwest Fire and @TucsonFireDept crews were dispatched to the area of Camino de la Tierra and River Road in reference to a vehicle stuck in the wash. pic.twitter.com/xsgE6RPjSJ
— Northwest Fire (@NorthwestFire) August 15, 2021
(2/4) Crews tried to make their way to the vehicle by foot, but the depth and speed of the water made that impossible. The female was able to get on the roof of her vehicle with her dog as the water level continued to rise. She struggled to pull in a life vest due to the tide. pic.twitter.com/10FkBSa8gQ
— Northwest Fire (@NorthwestFire) August 15, 2021
(3/4) A helicopter responded to assist with the rescue, but power lines in the area prohibited access.
— Northwest Fire (@NorthwestFire) August 15, 2021
After multiple attempts to reach the victim, TFD crews were able to extend their ladder far enough to get a life vest and rescue ring to the victim for use. pic.twitter.com/V6YTiEiAdL
(4/4) The woman & dog were pulled to safety. The depth, speed and other hazards in the water made this a difficult and dangerous rescue for all involved.
— Northwest Fire (@NorthwestFire) August 15, 2021
Thank you to @TucsonFireDept, @PimaSheriff & @Tucson_Police for efforts on this call. PLEASE avoid all flooded areas. pic.twitter.com/vEfuHUOhgS