California deploys additional Urban Search and Rescue personnel to support response to Hurricane Milton
The Californer/10294024

~ SACRAMENTO - As Hurricane Milton approaches Florida, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the deployment of an additional 70 California-based firefighters to assist with search and rescue efforts. This brings the total number of California personnel deployed to support recent hurricane response efforts to 354.

Earlier this week, 144 California Urban Search and Rescue personnel were deployed and are currently prepositioned in Florida. The Governor had previously deployed 140 firefighters and support personnel to assist with the response to Hurricane Helene.

These highly specialized personnel are trained in structural collapse and swift water/flood environments. They will be working closely with FEMA to provide around-the-clock support for search and rescue operations when conditions permit.

Governor Newsom expressed his solidarity with the people of Florida, saying, "In times of crisis, Americans unite to lend a helping hand. California is sending hundreds of emergency personnel to aid Florida as the state endures devastating hurricanes. Floridians, please stay safe and follow all emergency guidance."

The additional 70 Task Force members have been deployed from Orange County and Menlo Park under the coordination of the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES). This deployment will not affect California's own emergency response and firefighting capabilities.

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Cal OES Director Nancy Ward stated, "California is dedicated to helping those in the path of this major storm. With the deployment of these additional resources, we can help bolster ongoing response and recovery efforts as Hurricane Milton impacts communities across Florida."

This is not the first time that California has provided aid during natural disasters in other states. Last month, Governor Newsom deployed support to Florida for Hurricane Helene. In July and August, aid was also sent to Texas and Georgia respectively in response to tropical storms. In the past two years alone, California has also sent firefighters to New Mexico, Hawaii, Oregon, and Montana.

In other news announced by Governor Newsom today, Jennifer Troia has been appointed as Director at the California Department of Social Services. Additionally, 18 Superior Court Judges have been appointed, including one in Colusa County, one in Contra Costa County, five in Los Angeles County, two in Orange County, three in Sacramento County, and one in San Bernardino County.

In a separate incident, the California Highway Patrol seized nearly $1.7 million worth of illegal fentanyl and multiple illegally possessed firearms during two enforcement stops. Three out-of-state suspects were arrested in the Central Valley. The drugs were found hidden inside raw beef. This highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and keep our communities safe.

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