Governor Newsom deploys California resources to Washington to support flood response efforts
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~ SACRAMENTO - In response to the severe flooding in Washington state, Governor Gavin Newsom has announced the deployment of California fire and rescue resources to support the ongoing flood response efforts. The deployment includes approximately 150 personnel, including a swift water rescue team, three Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Task Forces, and one Incident Support Team.

Governor Newsom stated, "In times of crisis, California doesn't hesitate to support our neighbors. Deploying California's Urban Search and Rescue teams reflects our shared commitment to protect lives, strengthen regional resilience, and stand with states that need our help."

The Western region of Washington has been experiencing historic and life-threatening flooding after back-to-back atmospheric river storms dropped several inches of rain in just a few days. This has resulted in widespread evacuations, water rescues, and the closure of major highways and rail lines.

To assist with the emergency response efforts, the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is deploying two swift water rescue boats with six personnel from the Marin County Fire Department. In coordination with FEMA, Cal OES is also deploying three US&R Task Force teams and eight Incident Support Team personnel. These deployments will have minimal impact on California's own emergency response capabilities.

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Cal OES Director Nancy Ward stated, "California is assisting Washington with expert emergency responders and resources in support of current flood efforts. Mutual aid is about neighbors helping neighbors and ensuring every community receives timely support when it matters most."

The US&R teams are highly trained and equipped to conduct complex rescues during severe flood events. They are able to locate and evacuate survivors from swift water, inundated structures, and isolated areas. These teams bring specialized capabilities such as boat operations, high water rescue techniques, and technical search expertise to support local authorities during major disasters.

FEMA Incident Support Teams are groups of highly qualified specialists that provide technical assistance, management, and coordination of US&R resources to local first responders.

The search and rescue team members being deployed to Washington State come from five California fire departments: Los Angeles City Fire Department, Menlo Park Fire Protection District, Orange County Fire Department, Riverside City Fire Department, and San Diego City Fire Department.

This deployment is just one example of California's mutual aid leadership. The state has previously deployed resources to various state, national, and international disasters. Earlier this year, California resources responded to Alaska, Texas, New Mexico, Oregon, Jamaica, Arizona, and Puerto Rico. In the past, California has also provided support for events such as Hurricanes Harvey, Irma and Maria, the September 11th attacks, Hurricane Katrina, Hurricane Rita, and Hurricane Ian.

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In other recent news from Governor Newsom's office, it was announced that coho salmon have made a comeback in the Russian River for the first time in 30 years. This is a result of the statewide recovery strategy to protect our natural resources. Additionally, Governor Newsom and First Partner Jennifer Siebel Newsom were joined by five-year-old twins Jude and Rebecca Kessler for the 94th annual Capitol Tree lighting ceremony. The Kessler family lost their home in the Eaton Fire but were able to participate in this special event.

Furthermore, Governor Newsom has allocated nearly $1 billion paid by big polluters towards creating new housing and transportation options in California. This will include thousands of new affordable homes and green transportation upgrades in 17 communities across the state. These efforts are part of California's ongoing commitment to combat climate change and promote sustainable living practices.

Filed Under: Government, State
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