Kitten rescued after two weeks trapped in California storm drain

A three-month-old kitten, now affectionately known as Stormy, is available for adoption after a harrowing two-week ordeal trapped in a Gardena storm drain. Firefighters successfully rescued the feline, whose cries were first heard by a local resident near her home, prompting calls to authorities.Rescuers from animal control and the Los Angeles County Fire Department faced significant challenges, including a stuck manhole cover and the drain's location within private community property, according to SPCALA spokeswoman Ana Bustilloz. For two weeks, area residents rallied, lowering food and water to the cornered kitten, ensuring its survival until its eventual rescue. Stormy is now seeking a permanent home.Rescuers from animal control and the Los Angeles County Fire Department faced significant challenges to rescue Stormy (spcLA)"A breakthrough came when a Los Angeles County Public Works representative contacted the community's homeowner's association manager and clarified ownership of the manhole," Bustilloz explained. "Three different contractors were brought in to assist with opening the stubborn cover. After two days of effort, they finally succeeded."Gardena Animal Control officers set a humane trap inside the drain and seven hours later, Stormy was in protective custody.``After everything this kitten endured, Stormy is doing remarkably well," said SPCALA President Madeline Bernstein.``He was frightened and disoriented, but he appears healthy, strong and ready for a fresh start."The storm drain system survivor is now available for adoption at the SPCALA South Bay Pet Adoption Center at 12910 Yukon Ave. in Hawthorne, which is open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.The shelter's adoptable pets can be viewed at spcaLA.com/adopt.Similarly, in Georgia, another kitten was rescued after being trapped inside a car engine with an unusual tool used by police officers.Footage shared by the Hall County Sheriff’s Office shows Officer Nick Jackson attempting to coax the cat out of its hiding spot last month.Jackson stopped to investigate after noticing two women standing beside a car with its hood open. After hearing that kittens were trapped inside, he used a drumstick to carefully reach behind the engine and pull the kitten to safety.The women were alerted to the kitten’s presence after hearing meowing coming from under the hood. They eventually discovered three kittens inside the vehicle, though they were unsure how the animals had gotten there.