At approximately 9:15 p.m. Aug. 13, Wolfe County Search & Rescue was dispatched for a swift water rescue involving two individuals who attempted to drive across the Middle Fork of the Red River near Torrent Falls.
The vehicle stalled while crossing the flooded river, leaving both occupants on the roof. Moments later, the vehicle began to float downstream and rolled over several times.
One individual fell into the flooded river, while the second jumped in an attempt to reach the shoreline. The individual closest to Hwy. 11 grabbed a tree limb but was pulled underwater several while trying to get himself to safety. The current was so strong it ripped his shoes off. Fortunately, he pulled onto the riverbank and called for help.
The second individual reached the opposite riverbank where he became stranded there. WCSART team members arrived and evaluated the safest way to reach him. A footbridge downstream was located that remained above the floodwater, allowing team members to safely cross the river and hike to his location.
Rather than attempting a dangerous river crossing or high-risk water rescue, team members reached the stranded motorist on foot and escorted him to safety. Thankfully, both individuals survived what could have been a much more serious incident.
A reminder from WCSAR: Flooded waterways that may normally be easily passable can become powerful enough to move vehicles, sweep people off their feet and carry them downstream. Never attempt to drive or walk through moving floodwater.
When conditions are dangerous, the safest rescue avoids putting rescuers in unnecessary danger. In this case, finding an alternate route allowed our team to safely reach him without entering the swift water.
Stay safe. Please remember: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
