An woman is shown being rescued from the water at Angel Falls via helicopter as part of a coordinated effort on May 16.
A young woman nearly drowned near Bass Lake last weekend and the sheriff’s office is warning visitors to be aware of the many dangers in local waterways.
First responders from the Madera County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), CAL FIRE, U.S. Forest Service, CHP and Sierra Ambulance on May 16 were required for a near-drowning incident at Angel Falls involving a woman, 23, trapped in fast-moving water.
The location is along Willow Creek above Bass Lake in the Sierra National Forest, a familiar site for rescue and recovery.
“It all happened about 8:30 a.m. Saturday morning when we received a call that there was a woman clinging to these rocks for dear life and unable to get out,” said Sheriff Tyson Pogue, speaking from the location where the incident took place.
“Due to the dangerous terrain and water conditions a helicopter rescue was required to safely remove the victim from the area. The victim was eventually removed from the water and transported to a local hospital.”
Sheriff Tyson Pogue at Angel Falls.
Authorities did not identify the victim by name.
“The victim was rescued thanks to the coordinated efforts of all responding agencies,” Pogue continued, lauding the personnel involved in the operation.
“The responders faced extremely difficult terrain, cold water and a dangerous rescue environment. These rescues are physically demanding, they’re technically difficult and they’re extremely dangerous. And it’s only because of these coordinated efforts and the rapid response that this incident this weekend ended without a tragedy.”
The sheriff said the situation served as an important reminder that Angel Falls is not a controlled environment and the same goes for other local waters.
“Recreating in waterways has extreme risks. Over the years, first responders have responded to multiple drownings, near-drownings, serious falls, broken bones, head injuries and technical rescues in this area.”
Pogue said many of these incidents involved people slipping on the rocks, underestimating the current or just trying to move closer to the water for a photo op or recreation.
“This is exactly why we keep warning the public to use caution, stay on those designated trails and avoid entering the water here at the falls. As temperatures rise we know more people are going to head out to our rivers, lakes and waterfalls. And while they can be beautiful, they also can become extremely dangerous so quickly as the undercurrents are so unpredictable.”
Pogue said conditions can change rapidly and safety should be the priority.
“We are grateful this incident did not end in tragedy. Please stay safe this summer and look out for one another.”
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