Written by the Pro-Tow Team
Serving Maple Valley, Auburn, Spokane and the Pacific Northwest
The Cedar River in Western Washington reached record highs this month, causing widespread flooding throughout the Cedar River watershed. Over the last week, people have been evacuated from their homes and rescued from their vehicles while travelling. Pro-Tow by FleetEasy performed an emergency vehicle recovery during the flood at a private property near Maple Valley.
View the Cedar River flood news.
In this area, ongoing heavy rainfall and rapidly rising river levels had caused the river to overtake its banks, flooding nearby properties and creating dangerous, fast-moving currents. At the time of the call, flood warnings remained in place, and conditions were actively worsening.
The property owner on the call reported that rising water had already reached his driveway and garage area and was threatening several personal vehicles. With water levels continuing to climb, the situation required immediate towing in Maple Valley to prevent further damage.
Rapid Response During Active Flood Conditions
Pro-Tow mobilized quickly and arrived on scene within approximately 20 minutes. Upon arrival, the operator encountered rushing floodwater flowing across the driveway and into the garage area. We knew we had to act fast.
Proper personal protective equipment was used before entering the water, and a quick assessment was completed to determine the safest approach for the vehicle recovery. We also had to account for current strength and ground stability, and ensure our vehicle was in a good position.
Recovery of a Shelby Mustang from Rising Water
The first priority was a classic Shelby Mustang already surrounded by floodwater. The tow bed was positioned as close as safely possible, and soft straps were applied to the vehicle’s rear control arms to prevent damage during recovery.
Due to limited space and water movement, the customer sat inside the vehicle to assist with steering while we winched the vehicle. Working against both time and rising water levels, the Mustang was successfully loaded onto the tow bed. We quickly transported it to higher ground up the hill, safely outside the flood zone.
Additional Vehicles and Motorcycle Secured
After the initial recovery, it became clear that additional vehicles, including two more cars and a custom chopper motorcycle, were also at risk of being damaged by the flood. With water continuing to rise, we returned to the property to rescue those vehicles.
Each vehicle was carefully secured and removed one at a time, then relocated to safe, dry ground. Throughout the process, controlled winching techniques were used to account for water flow and unstable conditions. Our operator was very careful to ensure the vehicle recovery went safely and according to regulations without damage to the customer’s property.
Safety, Judgment, and Customer Care
All recovery actions were completed on private property with the customer there, ensuring they felt comfortable and taken care of during a very stressful situation. Despite challenging conditions, the operator kept his focus on risk management, vehicle protection, and personal safety.
Once all vehicles were in a safe zone, the job was done. The customer was thankful to have his cars and motorcycle rescued, and we cleared the watery scene.
When There’s an Emergency, Pro-Tow Will Be There
Pro-Tow by FleetEasy successfully recovered multiple personal vehicles from an actively flooding area, preventing significant loss for the customer. While we offer regular towing in Maple Valley, we have the equipment, training and expertise to handle emergency recovery situations like this one.
If you need help, we’ll be there. Any time and anywhere.
Call our 24/7 Dispatch Line: 253-245-5454
