A firefighter in Maui, Hawaii, was carried away by strong floodwaters into a storm drain and transported for a considerable distance. The firefighter, who remains unidentified, cleared debris from a 4-foot-wide drain in Kihei on Friday when he was suddenly pulled in. He was carried through the drain for 800 yards until it emptied into the ocean.
Mahina Martin, Chief of Communications and Public Affairs for Maui County, informed Hawaii News Now that crews from the county's public works were also present. They quickly provided information on the drain's flow path and final destination, according to Newsweek.
Firefighter Swept in the Flood
According to Mahina Martin, fire crews and emergency personnel were able to reach the location quickly, locate the firefighter, and bring him to safety. The firefighter was unconscious when found, but after receiving CPR, he regained consciousness and was transported to Maui Memorial Medical Center for medical attention.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) warns that even a small amount of moving water can be dangerous, with just 6 inches capable of knocking people off their feet. Tom Birchard, a meteorologist with the National Weather Service, told KHON news that even fresh water running through a stream or roadway could pose a threat and knock a person or car off balance. This can happen at the shore break on the north shore when water is flowing across the sand.
Flash flooding is the US's leading cause of weather-related fatalities, averaging around 90 deaths annually. In 2021, 146 people lost their lives in floods across the nation. Recently, Maui experienced significant flooding from heavy rainfall, with some areas receiving up to 13 inches. Kihei, where the firefighter was involved in the incident, is prone to flooding due to its low elevation and coastal location. With more rain predicted, the risk of flash flooding remains elevated.
On Friday, the floodwaters block off the road near the Hosmer Grove Campground in Haleakala National Park.
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Hawaiian Heavy Floods
The National Weather Service issued a flood alert warning, stating that "heavy rainfall" is expected tonight through Monday. Some areas in Maui County have already been affected by flooding, and further rainfall will quickly cause flooding in low-lying areas. The firefighter remains in the hospital in critical condition. Mayor Richard Bissen Jr and Fire Chief Brad Ventura went to the hospital's emergency room to support the firefighter's family and colleagues.
Martin stated that the focus is on supporting the firefighter's family and asked for the community's support through prayers for his recovery. Hawaii is susceptible to the dangers of hurricanes and storms, which can bring about intense rainfall resulting in flooding and hazardous surf conditions. A sudden downpour can trigger flash floods and landslides in areas such as canyons and valleys.
The impact of flooding, storm surge, and rain-related incidents can harm infrastructure and lead to neighborhoods being cut off from power, water, and other necessary resources. To be prepared, all Hawaii residents should assemble a family emergency kit with enough supplies to last 14 days, including food, water, medicine, and other necessities. Additionally, it's crucial to have a family emergency plan in place.
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Check out more news and information on Flooding in Science Times.