Frantic Search Underway for Driver Swept Away by Raging SoCal Floodwaters

Rescue crews had to suspend search efforts overnight due to dangerous weather conditions.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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A driver in San Bernardino, California was swept away by floodwaters on Tuesday night after clinging to the roof of their truck. Rescue crews arrived on the scene but were unable to save the individual, who was carried away by the rushing water. The search had to be suspended overnight due to the severe weather but is expected to resume at daybreak.

Why it matters

Heavy rains have been pounding Southern California, leading to dangerous flooding conditions that have put lives at risk. This incident highlights the need for increased preparedness and safety measures in the region during extreme weather events.

The details

The driver had been sitting on the roof of their vehicle in the Devore neighborhood of San Bernardino as heavy rains caused severe flooding. Rescue crews arrived shortly before 11:30 p.m. but were unable to save the individual, who was swept away by the rushing floodwaters. The search had to be suspended after two hours due to the dangerous weather conditions and is expected to resume at daybreak on Wednesday morning.

  • The incident occurred late Tuesday night in San Bernardino.
  • Rescue crews arrived on the scene shortly before 11:30 p.m.
  • The search had to be suspended after two hours due to the weather.

The players

San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department

The local law enforcement agency leading the search and rescue efforts.

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What’s next

The search is expected to resume at daybreak on Wednesday morning as crews continue to look for the missing driver.

The takeaway

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers posed by severe weather events and the importance of heeding all safety warnings and evacuation orders during times of flooding or other natural disasters.