Weather Expert's Live Rescue: A Story of Quick Thinking During a Storm

In the midst of Hurricane Helene, Fox Weather meteorologist Bob Van Dillen was reporting from Peachtree Creek in North Atlanta. As he spoke to the camera, a woman trapped in her car nearby called out for help. The floodwater was rising fast, and she was panicking. Van Dillen reassured her that 911 had been notified and first responders were on their way. But as the woman continued to shout, he realized he couldn't just stand by. He waded into the water, trying to open the car door against the strong current. It was no use; the pressure was too great. He asked her to roll down the window a bit more. With that slight opening, he managed to pry the door open and unbuckle her seat belt. The woman was about five feet tall, so the water was chest-deep on Van Dillen but would have reached her neck. He carried her to safety, just in time for the fire department to arrive a few minutes later. Back on the "Fox & Friends" broadcast, Van Dillen shared his experience with anchors Ainsley Earhardt and Steve Doocy. He explained how he had to equalize the pressure inside the car before he could open the door. It was like a miracle that the car's electrical system hadn't short-circuited in the water, allowing them to roll down the window. Van Dillen also noted that the water temperature was about 80 degrees, relatively warm compared to what you might expect from a storm. But even with that comfort, it's clear that the woman wouldn't have been able to escape on her own. The rescue highlights not just Van Dillen's quick thinking but also the crucial role of bystanders in emergency situations.

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