California is deploying skilled search-and-rescue teams to assist in central Texas, where devastating flash floods over the Fourth of July weekend have claimed more than 100 lives. Governor Gavin Newsom announced Monday that the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is coordinating with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to send these specialized teams.
The teams include members from California Task Force-4 in Oakland and Task Force-6 in Riverside. According to Cal OES Director Nancy Ward, “These search and rescue professionals have the training needed to navigate extreme conditions.” The deployment will not impact California’s emergency response capabilities.
The floods have been particularly catastrophic in the Texas Hill Country, with Camp Mystic in Kerr County reporting the loss of 27 campers and counselors. The area remains at risk for further life-threatening floods, with more rain expected. According to local reports, search efforts continue as teams work to locate victims.
Governor Newsom expressed solidarity with the affected communities, stating, “California stands with all those who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods in the devastating aftermath of these summer floods in Texas.” The teams are expected to remain in Texas for up to 14 days to support ongoing rescue and recovery efforts.
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