A Day of Drama in the Rain

The Sepulveda Basin was the scene of dramatic rescue efforts Monday as a number of motorists became trapped by rapidly rising floodwaters. As heavy rains pelted the San Fernando Valley, the Los Angeles River overflowed, stranding people and vehicles. Fire Department choppers plucked victims from danger. Scores of firefighters, police officers, county lifeguards and volunteers rushed to the area to help, and many waded or swam to help people from the cold waters.