First responders and K9s from across Wisconsin, including some from our area, have been deployed to central Texas in the aftermath of catastrophic flash flooding, July 8, 2025. (Photo courtesy: Wisconsin Emergency Management)
(WTAQ-WLUK) — First responders from across Wisconsin, including some from our area, have been deployed to central Texas in the aftermath of devastating flash flooding.
Search and rescue operations entered a sixth day Wednesday. It was back on the 4th of July when torrential rainfall overwhelmed the Guadalupe River, which rose 26 feet in just 45 minutes in some areas.
Over 100 people are dead and at least 160 remain missing.
Five members of Wisconsin’s Urban Search and Rescue Task Force, known as Wisconsin Task Force 1, are expected to arrive Wednesday in the Lone Star State, where they will assist with search and rescue efforts. Three K9s are also making the trip.
The team is bringing with them specialized equipment to aid recovery efforts, including an utility all-terrain vehicle and medical supplies.
WI-TF1 includes members from fire departments across the state and employees of the REACT Center. The five members deployed on this mission are from the REACT Center and the Green Bay, Janesville and Menomonie fire departments.
“Wisconsin Task Force 1 brings together individuals from across the state with specialized training and capabilities to support not only our own communities, but also communities experiencing emergencies throughout the country,” said Wisconsin Emergency Management Administrator Greg Engle.
We are a more resilient nation when states support one another during emergencies. Our hearts go out to the families and communities affected by this terrible disaster.
The Texas Division of Emergency Management made the request through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, which is a nationwide mutual aid system. WI-TF1’s assistance was requested for 14 days, but their time in Texas may be shortened or lengthened, based on need.
WI-TF1 is a resource of Wisconsin Emergency Management, a division of the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs.
Comments