Alabama Sends Rescue Teams to Flood-Ravaged Texas

Gov. Kay Ivey announced Friday that Alabama has deployed four Type III Swiftwater Search and Rescue teams to assist Texas as the state battles life-threatening flooding.

The teams include personnel from Mobile, Lauderdale, Cullman, Marshall, DeKalb, Jefferson, Shelby and Chilton counties. Each team consists of eight trained responders and multiple rescue boats designed to operate in active flood zones during search, rescue and recovery missions.

"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."

Texas Hill Country continues to experience heavy rainfall and dangerous flooding, prompting Flash Flood Emergencies and ongoing search-and-rescue operations in areas that were also impacted by severe flooding last year.

Ivey said Alabama is coordinating the deployment with the Alabama Emergency Management Agency while continuing to monitor conditions.

"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," she said.

The governor also noted that the flooding serves as a reminder for Alabamians to stay prepared for disasters, highlighting recently signed legislation that includes a statewide emergency notification system, the Sarah Marsh Heaven's 27 Camp Safety Act and a new dam safety program.