Two clinging to branches rescued from San Joaquin River near Highway 41

FRESNO, Calif. (FOX26) — The Fresno Fire Department’s Water Rescue Team rescued two people trapped by the swift-moving San Joaquin River on Sunday.

Firefighters responded to reports that someone was yelling for help in the river near Highway 41.

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Fire crews and other first responders arrived and found two people stranded in the river, clinging to tree branches in swift-moving water.

Officials described the situation as dangerous and potentially life-threatening.

Members of the department’s Water Rescue Team entered the river and used boats to reach the two individuals.

Both were rescued and brought safely to shore.

One of the rescued individuals was taken to a local hospital for medical evaluation.

With warmer temperatures arriving and more people heading to waterways to cool off, officials urged the public to use extreme caution around rivers.

Even when water appears calm, they warned rivers can be dangerous because of strong currents, cold water temperatures, debris, and rapidly changing conditions.