California National Guard evacuates civilians from Hurricane Hilary flooding 

Story by 1st Lt. Daniel Phelps
California Military Department Public Affairs

August 28, 2023

SACRAMENTO, Calif., – Hurricane Hilary brought a deluge of rainfall on Southern California, shattering daily rainfall records during a time of the year that usually sees none.

Leading up to the storm, weather forecasters were predicting what could possibly come from the looming storm.

On Aug. 19, California Governor Gavin Newsome signed a proclamation of a State of Emergency. To prepare for the onslaught, the 330^th Military Police Company strategically prepositioned high-water vehicles in coordination with the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services in Moreno Valley and waited.

Then the storm came. At 2 a.m., the 330^th MP Company’s 3^rd Platoon got the call that people needed to be evacuated in Cathedral City to help the Palm Springs Fire Department.

“We came to this intersection that was completely flooded; all of the roads around were pretty messed up,” said Army 2^nd Lt. Mark Santos, 3^rd Platoon commander.

On top of the water, mud was all over the place and vehicles that attempted to drive through sank like quicksand.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection was also sent to the area to help with swift water rescues. Their team rescued five individuals in the area.

The water had covered multiple blocks of fine, silty sediment; several homes were just full of mud, said CAL FIRE Battalion Chief Pete Tierney.

“I’ve never experienced this in my 25 years,” Tierney said. “I’ve never seen this area flood. There was water all over the valley.”

When the Guard came to the intersection where people needed evacuation, only one unit was able to reach the residents due to the water level and strong currents.

“Only our vehicles could make it through,” said Santos. “And we had to move quick because the mud was sinking our trucks.”

The 3^rd Platoon ended up rescuing eight people in Crystal City that early morning and getting them medical care to check for any potential injuries.

“I’m really proud of what we were able to accomplish,” said Santos. “Being able to activate and save lives at a moment’s notice is incredible.”