In the early hours of Friday, a woman trapped in the rain-swollen Tujunga Wash was rescued by Los Angeles firefighters. The rescue required a helicopter hoist to lift her from the rapidly flowing water. The incident highlights the city’s emergency response capabilities during extreme weather.
The Incident
The Tujunga Wash, a 13-mile tributary of the Los Angeles River, had become a torrent after two days of rain that set daily rainfall records in nearby communities. The wash’s concrete channel near Branford Street in Arleta was full of water and debris. The flood control channels across the city were saturated, making the area dangerous.
The Response
At about 8 a.m., LAFD crews received a report that a woman was stuck in the channel near Branford Street. The call came from residents who had seen the woman struggling against the rushing water. Firefighters immediately dispatched units to the scene.
The Rescue
The wash was rapidly flowing, carrying debris and water at high speed, making the channel hazardous for anyone trapped inside. Ground crews noted that the water depth was too great for safe footing. The risk of being swept away was high.
LAFD dispatched multiple units, arriving quickly to assess the situation and secure the perimeter. Firefighters worked to stabilize the woman and prepare her for evacuation. They coordinated with aerial units for a hoist operation.
Recognizing that the only viable option was aerial assistance, ground crews positioned the woman near Lankershim Boulevard where the water was still high but manageable for a hoist. They secured her with safety lines and communicated with the helicopter crew. The plan was to lift her to safety above the floodplain.
A helicopter arrived shortly after ground crews had positioned the woman. The aircraft’s winch system was deployed to hoist the victim from the water. The crew worked quickly to ensure a smooth lift.
Using a winch system, the helicopter lifted the woman from the water, bringing her to safety above the floodplain. The operation took only a few minutes, minimizing her exposure to the dangerous conditions. The crew maintained constant communication throughout the lift.
The woman suffered minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital for evaluation. She was treated for cuts and bruises before being released. No serious injuries were reported.
Weather Context
Los Angeles’ flood control channels were full of water following the heavy rains, and the city had issued flash flood warnings earlier in the day. The rain-swollen Tujunga Wash was part of a larger network of channels designed to manage storm runoff.
Current Advisories
Although flash flood warnings expired early Friday, flood watches and advisories remain in effect across the region. Residents are advised to stay alert for potential flooding.
Conclusion
The incident underscores the importance of rapid emergency response during extreme weather events and the effectiveness of coordinated ground and aerial firefighting resources. It also demonstrates the city’s preparedness to handle sudden flood emergencies.
Key Takeaways
- Woman rescued from Tujunga Wash using helicopter hoist.
- Minor injuries sustained, no serious harm.
- Flash flood warnings lifted, but watches and advisories continue.
Los Angeles firefighters’ swift action saved a woman from the dangers of a rain-swollen wash, illustrating the critical role of emergency services during severe weather.
