Chopper rescues 15 stranded hikers

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Fifteen hikers stranded in Waimanu Valley Sunday when heavy rains caused Waimanu Stream to become unpassable were rescued by county helicopter.

Fifteen hikers stranded in Waimanu Valley Sunday when heavy rains caused Waimanu Stream to become unpassable were rescued by county helicopter.

According to a written Hawaii County Fire Department statement, five people managed to hike to an area that had cellphone coverage and called 911 Sunday afternoon.

Six units, including the helicopter, were dispatched in response to the 2:52 p.m. alarm. The chopper spotted the 15 on the north side of the valley floor and flew them to Waipio Lookout.

The other five managed to make it out of valley at about 8:30 p.m.

None required medical attention.