Search Underway for 2-Year-Old Swept by Barstow Flood Waters; Body of 7-Year-Old Found in Uttar Pradesh Canal

Two separate incidents of young boys being swept away by floodwaters highlight ongoing concerns about water safety and rescue efforts. In Barstow, California, 2-year-old Xavier Padilla was swept away while in a car with his father during a flood; a massive search and rescue operation involving local fire departments and the CHP helicopter was launched, but the child remained missing several hours later. Xavier has autism, is nonverbal, and was last seen wearing black clothing and black-and-white Nike shoes. Meanwhile, in Lucknow, India, 7-year-old Veeru was swept away in an open drain connected to Haider Canal; despite a 20-hour search involving municipal teams, divers, and police, his body was eventually recovered. Veeru’s family and local residents have expressed grief and anger over the incident, citing previous similar tragedies and unaddressed safety concerns regarding open drains. Both cases underscore the dangers posed by floodwaters and inadequate infrastructure, prompting urgent calls for improved safety measures.