Video shows rushing floodwaters trapping two on top of submerged truck, CA officials say

Two adults were rescued after getting stranded on top of their truck that submerged in raging floodwaters, California officials said.

Personnel with the local Swift Water Rescue Team were dispatched around 11:30 p.m. on Jan. 10 to Hollister on reports of a “vehicle carrying two adults in distress that had become overcome by flood water,” according to a news release by Oakland Fire Department.

After the truck started sinking into the high water the two people “found themselves trapped on top of the vehicle,” officials said.

Video shows the rescue crew urging the passengers to “take their time” while several ladders were used to get them off the truck’s roof.

The two adults did not suffer any injuries.

“This rescue, amidst extremely challenging conditions, is a testament to the training and professionalism of the team members, and the strong coordination that exists between the various agencies they represent,” said Oakland fire Chief Reginald Freeman, according to the release. “The technical skill and communication involved in the rescue was phenomenal, and I hope this incident is a reminder for everyone about the dangers of attempting to drive through powerful and unpredictable storm water.”

Officials urge the public to be flood aware by being on the “lookout for potential flooding and mudslide areas.” The water flow can take a home off their foundation and carry large boulders and cars.

The Swift Water Rescue team includes personnel from Oakland Fire, Alameda County Fire, Fremont Fire, Contra Costa County Fire, Moraga Orinda Fire, Hayward Fire, Alameda City Fire and San Ramon Valley Fire.

Hollister is about 95 miles southeast of San Francisco.

This story was originally published January 12, 2023 at 9:20 AM with the headline "Video shows rushing floodwaters trapping two on top of submerged truck, CA officials say."