Orange County deputies rescue woman from rushing floodwaters, video shows

Surge from Econ River caused an “extreme current” in east Orange County, officials said

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Orange County deputies sprang into action Thursday after a woman got caught in the rushing waters of Econlockhatchee River, according to body camera footage of the incident.

The Orange County Sheriff’s Office posted the video to social media, saying the woman was in a car being swept away by floodwaters at Dean Road and Lake Underhill Road in Orlando. Deputies said it was an extreme current caused by a surge in the Little Econlockhatchee River.

[TRENDING: Pregnant woman braves Brevard roads during Hurricane Ian to give birth at hospital | 21 dead after Hurricane Ian ravages Florida, officials say | Become a News 6 Insider ]

Video shows five deputies form a “human chain,” using rope to venture out into 10-foot-deep waters to rescue the woman.

Five deputies involved in the rescue of a woman from rushing floodwaters in Orlando (Orange County Sheriff's Office)

News 6 reporter Lauren Cervantes responded to the area later Friday, finding that part of the road near the intersection had collapsed as floodwater continued to pour across. Barricades were set up nearby to ward off drivers.

Many areas in Central Florida have been struck by flooding from Hurricane Ian, and Orange County was no exception. As county officials tackle the aftermath of Ian’s trek through Central Florida, first responders have continued to deal with rescue efforts countywide.

News 6 has compiled a list of roadways in Central Florida that have been impacted by Ian, which can be found here.

Get today’s headlines in minutes with Your Florida Daily:


About the Authors

Anthony, a graduate of the University of Florida, joined ClickOrlando.com in April 2022.

Recommended Videos