In response to the deadly flooding in Kentucky, Governor Gavin Newsom has authorized the deployment of four incident support team (IST) personnel to assist in ongoing response and recovery efforts. These personnel will provide critical support to local and state agencies working to address the impacts of the disaster. Their deployment has no impact on California’s emergency response or recovery capabilities.
“Our thoughts are with the people of Kentucky as they recover from this tragic flooding. Even as we recover from the LA fires, we stand ready to assist in any way we can and are proud to send skilled personnel and resources to help in this critical time.”
Governor Newsom
These four specialized personnel are from the California/FEMA US&R Task Forces (TF) 4, 7 and 8 from Oakland, Sacramento and San Diego to bolster emergency response and recovery efforts.
The deployed team will assist in coordination efforts and resource management as Kentucky continues its response operations. California remains in close communication with emergency officials and is prepared to offer additional support if requested.
“These personnel are highly trained and bring critical expertise in emergency management and disaster response. Their skills will strengthen Kentucky’s life-saving response efforts, helping communities recover more quickly,” said Cal OES Director Nancy Ward.
Previously, California has deployed aid to Texas in July and Georgia in August, as well as Hurricane Helene in October. In the past two years, California has also deployed firefighters to New Mexico, Hawaii, Oregon and Montana.