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Jeannette Woman Clings To Pole During Recent Storm

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Jun 20, 2009 1:50 pm US/Eastern

Jeannette Woman Clings To Pole During Recent Storm

JEANNETTE (KDKA) ― Flash flooding has been a big concern for many local residents during the recent severe weather.

During one of the storms, a Westmoreland County woman found herself clinging onto a utility pole as flood waters rose around her.

"I was petrified," said Chastity White, talking about what happened on Wednesday night when a creek in Jeannette overflowed its banks.

Leaving her grandmother's home, White said she tried to walk through a few inches of water, but got her foot caught on something.

"And then I got hit by the current, by that time, I saw these two yellow vans covered with water," said White.

With water rising fast, a stranger came to the rescue.

"Some kid came out of nowhere and somehow we got my ankle loose and he was trying to direct me," said White. "He got me up against the pole."

White said she and the stranger held on to the utility pole. Residents who live at Jeannette Manor nearby watched helplessly.

Margaret Simms said she witnessed White stuck in the water and could hear the two talking.

White said the stranger, who held onto the pole with her for at least 45 minutes, told her he couldn't swim. She says it was extremely brave for him to have the courage to help her.

Eventually, White's brother showed up at the scene, made his way through the water and fastened a lifejacket to his sister. Once the water started to recede they were able to walk to safety.

Now that everyone is safe, White offered a message for the stranger who helped her Wednesday night.

"I want to say thank you, I love you; you're awesome," she said.

(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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