Oklahoma Task Force One and other swiftwater rescue teams are heading to South Texas to assist with emergency efforts as the Guadalupe River experiences catastrophic flooding.
Flood Relief Efforts
Brad Smith, an Oklahoma City fire battalion chief and leader of Task Force One, said his team of six is prepared for the mission. The team will bring two inflatable boats to navigate the floodwaters. The Guadalupe River has crested at 36.19 feet, surpassing last year’s levels during what was described as a one-in-a-thousand-year flood.
The flooding has already claimed at least one life and is hitting the same area that experienced catastrophic flooding last year on the Fourth of July, which killed more than 130 people. This time, first responders were ready, including those from Oklahoma.
Numerous flash flood emergencies have been issued throughout the day. Oklahoma officials said 12 Task Force One members are already in South Texas, and six more are now deploying to join them. Guymon and Yukon fire departments are also sending swiftwater rescue teams.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
