KANSAS CITY—Due to flash floods from heavy rain, the Kansas City Fire Department responded to a total of 11 water rescues throughout the city late Wednesday and early Independence Day morning, according to Battalion Chief Michael Hopkins. The most significant rescue occurred at Blue Parkway and Hardesty.
At 4:30 a.m. Thursday, crews responded to the area of Hardesty and MLK Boulevard. A homeless camp located next to a tributary to the Blue River was overcome by fast rising water.
A total of three victims were swept into the water. KCFD Rescue Swimmers and the drone operator were able to locate and remove two of the three.
The third victim was reported to have exited the water with his dog on the opposite side of the water. Due to rising water and its speed KCFD suspended operations.
While working the Hardesty call a second water rescue call came in at Cleaver and Oak in Brush Creek. A homeless camp there was also overcome by rising water and one individual was swept into the creek. Crews entered the water at that location and were able to rescue that individual from under the bridge.