The city of Buckeye, Arizona, became the scene of multiple water rescues on October 12 due to heavy rainfall across the region. The Buckeye Fire Medical Rescue Department and Arizona Fire & Medical Authority were called upon when an adult was stranded in fast-moving floodwaters. According to FOX 10 Phoenix, the individual was found approximately 100 feet from the water's edge near Old US80 and Patterson Road, requiring a helicopter from the Maricopa County Sheriff's Office for retrieval.
This incident was followed by another, where a vehicle with three occupants was found nearly 30 feet from the water's edge, the water rising to ¾ of the way up the vehicle's doors. The location near Tuthill and Clara Vista also featured swift-moving floodwaters. A ladder truck was utilized by Buckeye’s Technical Rescue Team, which enabled two firefighters to reach and remove the trapped individuals to safety, as FOX 10 Phoenix reported. Fortunately, there were no reported injuries from either of the rescues.
Officials underscored the dangers of such natural calamities and advised the public to be cautious. "These incidents serve as a reminder of the power of moving water and the importance of avoiding flooded roadways," said Assistant Fire Chief Rayne Gray. Furthermore, Deputy Chief Paul Carmen highlighted the threat by noting that just 12 inches of swift-moving water can carry away a vehicle, per statements to FOX 10 Phoenix.
In light of these events, the Buckeye Fire Department urged the community to adhere to the national safety campaign slogan: "Turn Around, Don’t Drown." Meanwhile, 12News informed viewers of the free 12+ app, which allows users to stream live events and newscasts and stay updated on breaking news and other important information, ensuring residents can remain informed and vigilant during such emergencies.
