Woman Critically Ill After Plunging into River Parrett in Bridgwater
A woman is in a critical but stable condition in hospital after she fell into the River Parrett in Bridgwater, Somerset, on Saturday, February 14. The incident occurred during plummeting temperatures of around 4°C, adding to the severity of the situation.
Emergency Response and Rescue Operation
Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 2.40pm after reports that a woman had toppled into the river near Broadway. The response involved a multi-agency effort, including:
- Avon and Somerset Police
- Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service
- Ambulance crews
- The National Police Air Service helicopter
- An air ambulance
Rescue teams worked tirelessly to locate and extract the woman from the water. She was in the river for about an hour before being pulled out near Western Way at 2.55pm by firefighters. Surrounding roads were closed for just over an hour, until around 3.50pm, to facilitate the operation.
Hospitalisation and Condition
Following her rescue, the woman was airlifted to hospital for urgent medical treatment. She remains critically ill but stable, according to reports from Somerset Live. Her next of kin have been informed of the incident.
A representative for Avon and Somerset Police provided a statement confirming the details: "Emergency services were called to a report of someone having fallen into the River Parrett in Bridgwater at about 2.40pm on Saturday 14 February. Police, fire and ambulance crews, supported by the National Police Air Service helicopter, were deployed following the report of a woman entering the water near Broadway. Nearby roads were closed until about 3.50pm."
The cold weather conditions, with temperatures hovering near freezing, likely exacerbated the risks associated with the fall. Such incidents highlight the dangers of water bodies during winter months and the vital role of emergency services in responding to life-threatening situations.
