Texas Task Force 1 (TX-TF1) has activated and deployed three swiftwater rescue teams to South Texas today (7/14/10) due to the potential for the Rio Grande river to flood over the next few days. The swiftwater rescue teams will be on standby in South Texas, awaiting requests by local jurisdictions should they experience flash flooding.

Texans are reminded to monitor local media or NOAA Weather Radio during severe weather events for any statements and/or warnings issued by the National Weather Service.

Flash Flood Facts
As little as six inches of water moving over a roadway can begin to move your car. Swiftwater has a different effect on vehicles than standing water. Twelve to 24 inches of swiftwater can sweep away any type of vehicle, even a large truck or SUV.

About Texas Task Force 1
Texas Task Force 1 is sponsored by the Texas Engineering Extension Service (TEEX) and is comprised of more than 450 personnel representing more than 60 jurisdictions and agencies from across the state of Texas, and is one of 28 teams in the national urban search and rescue system under FEMA. Texas Task Force 1 and TEEX coordinate statewide requests for search and rescue. TEEX and the Task Force are headquartered in College Station.

About the Texas Engineering Extension Service
TEEX, a member of The Texas A&M University System, offers hands-on, customized, first-responder training, homeland security exercises, technical assistance and technology transfer services impacting Texas and beyond. TEEX programs include fire services, homeland security, law enforcement, public works, safety and health, search and rescue, and economic development.

Contact
Brian Blake
TEEX Public Relations Director
Cell Phone: 979-324-8995
E-mail: [email protected]

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