On-call firefighters from Fordingbridge attended an incident in Rockford, New Forest, this morning after a vehicle submerged in floodwater was swept approximately 50 metres downstream. A member of the public rescued the driver before emergency services arrived shortly after 8:00am.
The vehicle entered a flooded section of road and became submerged in the floodwater, prompting an emergency response from Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service.
Upon arrival at the scene, firefighters conducted a medical assessment of the driver who had already been rescued from the vehicle submerged in floodwater. Police officers cordoned off the affected area and implemented road closures to ensure public safety.
Fire crews concluded their operation and returned to their stations by 8:30am.
Hampshire and Isle of Wight Fire and Rescue Service has issued safety warnings regarding flooding hazards for motorists, cyclists and pedestrians.
Drivers are urged never to attempt driving through floodwater and should turn back to find alternative routes. Road closures and warning signs must be observed at all times.
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Floodwater can appear deceptively shallow but may be significantly deeper and faster-moving than visible from the surface.
Anyone witnessing an accident should immediately dial 999, providing precise location details and information about any injuries sustained.
