Three people rescued during storm on Kaua‘i

LAWA‘I — A powerful spring storm, which triggered a flash flood warning for the island of Kaua‘i, led to multiple rescues by first responders on Wednesday.

The first incident happened at approximately 1:35 p.m., when two females found themselves stuck in a vehicle on a flooded portion of Lawa‘i Road near the National Tropical Botanical Gardens.

First responders arrived at the scene a few minutes later to find the water level was 2.5 feet above the road, which disabled the vehicle. Kaua‘i Fire Department personnel were able to reach the two individuals, get them out of the vehicle, and then escort them to higher ground. No injuries were reported.

The high water level prompted Kaua‘i Police Department personnel to close Lawa‘i Road, and appropriate warning signs were posted by the county Department of Public Works Roads Division. The scene was cleared at approximately 2:20 p.m.

A short while later, first responders and good Samaritans responded to a report of a vehicle, occupied by a man and a dog, that was swept into Lawa‘i Stream.

“According to a preliminary report, when first responders arrived on scene, a good Samaritan had already entered the stream to rescue the male from the car,” the fire department said in a statement.

“The good Samaritan retrieved the man from the vehicle and brought him safely to the stream bank. There were no signs of the dog.”

No injuries were reported. The scene was cleared shortly before 3 p.m. American Medical Response personnel also responded to both incidents on Wednesday afternoon.

The two incidents drew thanks and advice from Kaua‘i Fire Department Chief Michael Gibson.

“Mahalo to our first responders and good Samaritans for rescuing three individuals during yesterday’s (Wednesday’s) flash flood warning,” said Gibson in a statement.

“Fast-flowing or rising water in streams and roads are very unpredictable during flash flood warning conditions. As a reminder, please heed all warnings during extreme weather events for the safety of yourself, others and our first responders.”

The flash flood warning was in effect from 11:37 a.m. to 4:24 p.m. on Wednesday.

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Wyatt Haupt Jr., editor, can be reached at 808-245-0457 or whaupt@thegardenisland.com.