Couple rescued from rushing waters in Orange County during damaging storm

A man and a woman were rescued from the San Juan Creek in San Juan Capistrano after they became trapped in fast-moving water Friday morning.

The Orange County Fire Authority said they received reports around 1:42 a.m. that the couple was trapped and was holding onto trees and bushes.

One of the individuals had been dragged about 200 yards downstream by the current. They jumped into the arms of a rescuer, according to the OCFA.

The rescuer secured the victim, and a helicopter lifted them to safety. The man and woman were transported to the hospital for evaluation, authorities said.

"This successful rescue operation involved multiple resources — searching from shore, in boats ready to launch, on bridges downstream, and in the air — including upstaffed swift water rescue personnel positioned specifically for this rain event," the OCFA said.

Further south in Riverside County, crews were busy doing much of the same during the storm. 

On Thursday evening at around 9 p.m., Riverside Fire Department firefighters were dispatched to the Mission Inn Avenue bridge that runs over the Santa Ana River after learning of two men and two dogs that were trapped in the water. 

By using GIS technology, crews were able to pinpoint the exact location of the victims. 

"The first arriving engine crew made voice contact with the men, though they were not visible," said RFD Battalion Chief Scott Richmond. "The Riverside Fire Water Rescue team, along with a regional OES Water Rescue team, responded. A team member deployed a UAV ... with thermal imaging, which despite the rain, successfully located the men."

They were found clinging to trees in the area with their feet dangling above the water, firefighters said. 

As helicopters were grounded during the deluge, firefighters on rescue boats made their way through the water, clearing the dense brush with chainsaws to gain access to where the men were trapped. 

Both men and the two dogs were rescued and evaluated at the scene by paramedics. They declined further assistance after that, firefighters said. 

Authorities urge residents to remain vigilant around water, especially during storms.

The mudslides and debris flow across Southern California caused by heavy rainfall on Thursday left behind damage in communities.