**FOX Meteorologist Bob Van Dillen Hailed as Hero for Rescuing Woman During Hurricane Helene**

In an act of bravery, FOX Weather meteorologist Bob Van Dillen is being celebrated for rescuing a woman trapped in her car as floodwaters surged during Hurricane Helene near Atlanta. This courageous act occurred live on air, adding a dramatic layer to the ongoing storm coverage.

Van Dillen explained his decision to intervene during an appearance on "Fox & Friends," detailing why he couldn't wait for overwhelmed first responders to arrive. “We’re swamped here with all the 911 calls,” Van Dillen recounted, noting the desperation in the woman’s screams that were audible through his live broadcast. Despite the dangers, he felt compelled to act.

Pointing to the nearly submerged vehicle in the background, Van Dillen described the high stakes. "I just said, ‘You know what? I realize I’m with you guys on the air, but I can’t let it go,’” he recalled. Without hesitation, Van Dillen removed his wallet, prepared for the deep water, and waded in to assist the woman.

Van Dillen recounted how he navigated chest-deep waters to reach the woman, who was strapped into her car as the water rose around her. “The water came up to about my chest,” he explained, “she was almost neck deep submerged in her own car.”

In response to being asked about the consequences had he not acted, Van Dillen modestly suggested, "She would have drowned." He then described the rescue: instructing the woman to undo her seatbelt, handing over her phone and bags, and finally carrying her to safety.

The woman, in shock and shivering, was comforted in Van Dillen's vehicle until the fire department arrived approximately 20 minutes later. Thanks to Van Dillen's swift actions, she was safe when the rescue team moved on to their next mission. Shortly thereafter, the woman's husband arrived to take her home.

Hurricane Helene, which made landfall around 11:10 p.m. ET Thursday near Perry, Florida, has unleashed significant devastation across the Southeast, extending into the mid-Atlantic. The storm's torrential rains have caused unprecedented flash flooding, leading to multiple emergency alerts, including the first-ever issued for Atlanta.

Van Dillen's heroism exemplifies the spirit of community and bravery in times of natural disasters, earning him well-deserved praise and gratitude.