Man pulled from rushing floodwater in dramatic helicopter rescue by LA firefighters

Credit: LAFD Daniel Castillo/Cover ImagesLos Angeles firefighters rescued a man and his dog on Monday (05February2024) after the man jumped into swirling floodwaters in a desperate attempt to save his pet. Although the man was picked from the water in a dramatic helicopter rescue, the dog swam safely to shore and looked relaxed about their ordeal. In a statement, the LAFD wrote: “Firefighters responded to bystander reports that a man jumped in the flowing water in pursuit of his dog. “Crews responded to several bridges and access points down river and located the canine, who had managed to swim safely to the edge and escape the rapids. “LAFD Air Ops lowered a rescuer into the water, who was able to grab the patient, who was still conscious. They were hoisted into the aircraft, and transported to the local hospital by air. His dog was taken to a local shelter for temporary care for minor injuries.” Los Angeles is facing intense flooding from an atmospheric river that has pounded California with rain for two days. It is one of the three wettest storm systems in recorded Los Angeles history, according to the U.S. National Weather Service.