December 30, 2024 11:30 a.m. 

Flood waters rose too quickly for an individual’s safe escape from the South Umpqua River on Sunday night.

A release from Central Douglas Fire and Rescue said crews responded shortly after 6:00 p.m. after a report of an individual floating on a homemade raft near the 1300 block of Northwest Douglas Boulevard in Winston. On arrival, the subject was on the river’s south side in a flooded tree line, 50 to 60 feet from the bank. CDF&R’s technical rescue team assisted in the operation.

The release said conditions were extremely hazardous due to the high, fast-moving water and large trees and debris moving swiftly in the waterway. Access was made to the individual and he was brought to safe ground at approximately 7:15 p.m.

CDF&R was assisted by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, City of Winston Police Department, the Cow Creek Tribal Police Department and Oregon State Police.