Fire department rescues nine hikers stranded by flash flooding in Pololu Valley

Hawaii Fire Department personnel used both county helicopters Monday afternoon to rescue nine hikers stranded in Pololu Valley.

According to a fire department statement, the hikers were stranded on the east side of of the river on the floor of the remote North Kohala valley, and were unable to cross because of heavy mountain rains causing flash flooding and swiftly flowing water.

All nine were extracted by helicopter up to the landing zone at the valley lookout in Kapaau. All were in good health and none required medical attention.