MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Gov. Kay Ivey announced Friday that Alabama is deploying four Type III swiftwater search-and-rescue teams to Texas as severe flooding continues to threaten lives across the state.
“Alabamians always stand ready to lend a helping hand to our neighbors in need. I pray for Texans who are once again dealing with raging floodwaters,” Ivey said. “I thank our fellow Alabamians serving on the search-and-rescue teams and offer my prayers for a successful mission and safe return home.”
According to the governor’s office, the deployment includes teams from Mobile, Lauderdale, Cullman, Marshall, DeKalb, Jefferson, Shelby and Chilton counties. Each Type III team consists of eight personnel and multiple boats specially equipped for search, rescue and recovery operations in active flood zones.
Texas continues to experience relentless heavy rainfall across the Hill Country, the same region devastated by flooding last July. Flash Flood Emergencies remain in effect as emergency crews continue search-and-rescue operations.
Gov. Ivey said Alabama Emergency Management Agency officials are closely monitoring conditions and coordinating state resources as the response continues.
“Just as Alabama stepped up to help during the devastating Camp Mystic flooding last year, our state is once again committing people and resources to assist Texas in this time of need,” Ivey said.
The governor also encouraged Alabamians to remain prepared for severe weather. Earlier this year, Ivey signed several measures aimed at strengthening the state’s disaster preparedness, including funding for a statewide emergency notification system, the Sarah Marsh Heaven’s 27 Camp Safety Act and a dam safety program designed to help reduce flood risks across Alabama.
