Texas Task Force 1 heading to Florida Panhandle in advance of Hurricane Michael
COLLEGE STATION – The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has activated Texas Task Force 1 (TX-TF1), which is sponsored by the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service, in response to major Hurricane Michael bearing down on the Florida Panhandle.The TX-TF1 FEMA Type 1 Urban Search & Rescue (US&R) team is on its way to the Florida Panhandle today to assist local responders in preparing for the expected landfall of Hurricane Michael. The team consists of 80 members and four search canines, who are capable of 24-hour operations. TX-TF1 has also deployed members of the FEMA US&R Incident Support Team along with a FEMA US&R Hazardous Environment Push Package to support the state of Florida.
In addition, the Texas Division of Emergency Management has activated TX-TF1 water rescue resources in response to flash floods and missing persons in Central and North Texas. Five water rescue squads, three Helicopter Search & Rescue Technicians (HSART) and one Division/Group Supervisor have deployed in response to this significant rain event. TX-TF2 has also been put on alert in response of forecasted severe weather across Texas.
TX-TF1 reminds citizens to track weather reports, observe warnings issued by local authorities and always remember to avoid walking or driving in flood waters. Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
About Texas Task Force 1
TX-TF1 is sponsored by the Texas A&M Engineering Extension Service (TEEX), a member of The Texas A&M University System. The Task Force has deployed over 150 times since 1997, including the Space Shuttle Columbia tragedy, Sept. 11th World Trade Center attack, and Hurricanes Harvey, Florence, Katrina, Rita and Ike. TX-TF1 can be activated by the Texas Division of Emergency Management or as one of the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) 28 sanctioned urban search and rescue teams.