Multiple Rescued From Flooded Homeless Camp in California's Ventura County

Eighteen people were rescued as floodwaters tore through a homeless encampment in Ventura County, southern California, on Monday, January 9, amid severe flooding in the area, fire officials said.

The camp was situated by the Ventura River at Peking Street, according to the Ventura County Fire Department (VCFD).

“Seven people were rescued using a ladder, seven by air, and four walked out,” the department said. One person required medical attention for minor injuries, they added.

Footage posted by VCFD shows crews using a ladder, an inflatable boat, and a helicopter during the rescues along the riverbed. Credit: Ventura County Fire Department via Storyful

Video transcript

[RADIO CHATTER]

[SIRENS]

[RADIO CHATTER]

[WATER GUSHING]

- You got rope? You got a Walkie?

[INTERPOSING VOICES]

- Yes, sir.

[INTERPOSING VOICES]

- We got some strong bags if you need them.

[RADIO CHATTER]

[WATER GUSHING]

[CHATTER]

MAN (ON RADIO): Captain 7 from Engine 7.

OPERATOR (ON RADIO): Go ahead.

[RADIO CHATTER]

MAN (ON RADIO): --can you confirm that?

OPERATOR (ON RADIO): Confirmed.

[WIND BLOWING]

[RADIO CHATTER]

[HELICOPTER WHIRRING]