Oklahoma Task Force 1, the state’s elite urban search and rescue team, has wrapped up a critical flood response operation in New Mexico and is back home safely. The mission, which spanned several days, focused on rescuing residents and livestock, supporting evacuations, and evaluating flood damage in affected communities.
Rescue Operations Save Lives and Animals
During the deployment, task‑force members rescued 13 people, 11 dogs, one cat, and one pig from flood‑impacted areas. In addition, they located 79 goats that had become stranded and recovered the body of a person who tragically did not survive the disaster.
Evacuations and Damage Assessments
Beyond direct rescues, the team assisted local authorities with evacuations, helping families move to safer locations as waters receded. They also conducted thorough damage assessments, gathering data to aid recovery planning and to allocate resources where they are needed most.
Community Praise and Professionalism
“We are incredibly proud of this team and the work they accomplished in New Mexico. They answered the call, helped people and animals in need, and represented Oklahoma with professionalism and dedication,” said a spokesperson for the Tulsa Fire Department. The department highlighted that the task force’s actions exemplify the “Oklahoma standard” of service and commitment.
No Injuries Reported
All members of Oklahoma Task Force 1 returned to Oklahoma without injury, underscoring the thorough training and preparation that enable the team to operate safely in hazardous conditions.
What This Means for Oklahoma Communities
The successful mission reinforces the importance of having a well‑trained, ready‑to‑deploy emergency response team within the state. Residents can take confidence in the knowledge that when disaster strikes, Oklahoma’s own professionals are prepared to assist both at home and beyond our borders.
As the task force settles back into its home base, the focus will shift to debriefing, equipment maintenance, and continued readiness for future emergencies. Their recent experience in New Mexico adds valuable lessons that will benefit Oklahoma’s own disaster‑response capabilities.
Original reporting: KTUL 8 (Sinclair) – local — read the source article.
