Helicopter Hoist Rescue Saves Two Stranded Kayakers Trapped By Texas Floodwaters

Texas Department of Public Safety Aircraft Operations Division crews, working alongside the U.S. Border Patrol, successfully rescued two stranded kayakers after rapidly rising floodwaters left them isolated on a rock ledge on July 18.

According to the Texas Department of Public Safety, helicopter crews located the pair on the rocky outcrop and carried out two successful hoist rescues. The kayakers were safely transported for medical evaluation and were found to have no apparent injuries.

Aerial video with telemetry overlays shows a red kayak and the two stranded individuals on a rocky ledge beside a muddy river surrounded by green vegetation and steep cliffs. The footage captures a white and blue DPS helicopter hovering and maneuvering above the rugged canyon during the hoist rescue operation.

The Texas Department of Public Safety said its Aircraft Operations Division responded when the kayakers became stranded amid rapidly rising floodwaters along the Pecos River, adding that when Texans need help in the most challenging conditions, DPS is ready to answer the call.