First responders and local residents carried out a dramatic rescue Saturday afternoon when a man became stranded in fast-moving floodwaters in central Utah, as reported [1] by The New York Post.
Authorities say the man could have been swept away within moments if not for the quick response of multiple agencies and civilians.
Utah first responders, civilians rescue man clinging to bush in raging floodwaters https://t.co/i6mkWxwbDZ [2]
— William Rusk (@willdrusk) September 16, 2025 [3]
The Emery County Sheriff’s Office reported that deputies were called to the scene around 4 p.m. on Airport Road along the south side of Green River, Utah. Heavy rains in the area had triggered flash flooding, leaving the man trapped and unable to escape the current on his own.
The Green River Fire Department and Emery County Public Works responded with equipment, including a front loader, to assist in the rescue. A kayak was deployed to reach the man. Civilians and law enforcement worked together to provide lifesaving gear.
Sheriff’s Deputy Josh Opp and resident Kent Nelson were able to deliver a life vest and rope to the stranded man. After securing him, rescuers pulled him safely across the floodwaters to higher ground.
Video released by the sheriff’s office shows the dangerous conditions and the moment the man was brought to safety. Officials said the combined efforts of local citizens and first responders prevented what could have been a fatal outcome.
“The actions provided by the citizens were priceless. They put themselves in danger to rescue a perfect stranger,” the sheriff’s office said in a statement.
“The victim is not from our area, and no one knew him, but that did not matter to any of them. They were all cold and wet, working together to rescue a very scared person that could have been swept away at any second.”
‘Your actions today saved a life’: Man rescued from flash flood near Green Riverhttps://t.co/nVeOnjyfO9 [4]#UTLD [5]#UTAH [6]#JDATA [7] pic.twitter.com/4zUOZj4WaI [8]
— Utah Live Data (@UtahLiveData) September 14, 2025 [9]
The National Weather Service in Salt Lake City had issued a Flash Flood Warning for Emery County earlier Saturday. Meteorologists reported rainfall totals of between 2.5 and 4 inches in parts of the Seleratus Wash area, which contributed to the hazardous conditions.
Forecasters said Utah would see a temporary break in rainfall earlier in the week, but showers and thunderstorms were expected to return by Friday and continue through Saturday.
Authorities are urging residents and travelers to remain alert to weather warnings and avoid flood-prone areas.
SECONDS TO SPARE: Video by the Emery County Sheriff’s Office shows the multi-agency and good Samaritan effort to rescue the man and the moment he was brought to safety across rushing water. https://t.co/2RwRT2d4mi [10] pic.twitter.com/2GGcQo182G [11]
— FOX Weather (@foxweather) September 16, 2025 [12]
The rescued man, whose identity has not been released, did not suffer serious injuries. Officials emphasized that the incident underscores the dangers of flash flooding, which can develop rapidly and sweep away vehicles or individuals caught in its path.