The heavy rains that fell in this first quarter of 2024 in California have caused significant flooding in several areas of the state, including Bakersfield, where the effects have not only affected residents, but also local fauna.
In a rather striking incident, the Bakersfield Fire Department received a call for an unusual rescue: a raccoon trapped in a storm drain, where it was struggling not to be swept away by the water.
After receiving the alert, firefighters from Truck 1 immediately went to the scene, finding a heartbreaking scene, although no person was involved: it was a small raccoon whose head barely protruded from the rising water.
The rescuers managed to open the manhole cover where the raccoon had been trapped and, using this access, carefully assessed the situation to free it without causing harm.
Fortunately, they were able to find a safe, relatively dry place for the animal to take shelter after its harrowing experience. According to firefighters, the raccoon showed obvious relief at being free from the threat that was lurking around it.
The Bakersfield Fire Department shared the experience on its Facebook page with a heartwarming message: “Some days, all you can do is keep your head above water, and other days you just need a little help.”
