Four people were rescued from the attic of a home in Washington amid “historic” flooding, according to the U.S. Coast Guard. The dramatic footage of the rescue shows two survivors being hoisted into a helicopter as homes were surrounded by up to 10 feet of water. “This is exactly why we train the way we do, day in and day out,” said Scott Giard, Coast Guard Northwest District Search and Rescue Program Manager.
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The rescue took place in the city of Sumas on Wednesday, Dec. 10, with eight to 10 feet of water engulfing the home. The four individuals were trapped in their attic as the floodwaters continued to rise around them, making it impossible for the Whatcom County Fire District 14 and the U.S. Border Patrol to reach them. Responding to the distress call, Coast Guard Air Stations Port Angeles, Wash., and Astoria, Ore., sprung into action, each successfully hoisting two survivors into their awaiting helicopters.
The first rescue operation involved an MH-65 Dolphin aircrew from Air Station Port Angeles, who deployed a rescue swimmer to the roof of a porch. The swimmer then assisted the survivors through a window in the second-story attic. Subsequent footage released by the Coast Guard captured the intense moment when the rescue swimmer was lowered to the flooded home, followed by the two survivors being airlifted to safety.
Following the initial rescue, an aircrew from Air Station Astoria swooped in to save the two remaining victims and the rescue swimmer, swiftly transporting them to a landing zone for medical assessment. Thankfully, there were no reported injuries in connection with the rescue mission.
Scott Giard emphasized the significance of the Coast Guard’s rigorous training protocols, stating, “When human lives are at risk, our crews stand ready to respond with skill and precision.” The historic flooding in Washington has displaced tens of thousands of residents, with water levels exceeding 15 feet in some areas, according to reports from NBC News and CNN.
Washington Governor Bob Ferguson described the unfolding situation as “historic,” forecasting levels that are 2 feet higher than the existing record flood level. In response to the crisis, a statewide emergency was declared, and the potential for thousands to receive evacuation orders or warnings looms large.
Ferguson urged residents to heed evacuation directives, emphasising, “If you receive an evacuation order, please follow that order. It’s critical to your safety.” The gravity of the situation underscores the importance of preparedness and swift action in the face of natural disasters.
As the region grapples with the aftermath of the devastating flooding, stories of resilience and heroism emerge, highlighting the spirit of unity and support in times of crisis. The coordinated efforts of rescue teams and emergency response units serve as a testament to the unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and ensuring the well-being of communities in the face of adversity.
In the wake of this harrowing ordeal, the residents of Washington stand resilient, united in their determination to rebuild and recover from the unprecedented challenges posed by the historic flooding. The indomitable human spirit shines through amidst the darkness, a beacon of hope guiding the way towards a brighter future.