The U.S. Defense Department is mobilizing to help communities affected by Tropical Storm Helene, according to Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Sabrina Singh. The storm initially made landfall as a powerful Category 4 hurricane late Thursday night in Florida’s Big Bend area. It made landfall in Florida before weakening into a tropical storm and moving inland. The storm is expected to bring damaging winds and heavy rainfall. It would move north across Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Kentucky.
Warnings of Severe Flooding
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) issued a warning earlier today. It stated that Helene could cause “historic, catastrophic, and life-threatening” flooding. As the storm moves inland, communities in its path remain on high alert for severe weather impacts. The potential for flooding is one of the most serious concerns, and authorities are urging residents in affected areas to take precautions.
Florida National Guard Mobilizes for Rescue Operations
In response to Tropical Storm Helene, the Florida National Guard has mobilized a large number of personnel and resources. Currently, there are 3,900 guardsmen active in Florida. They are conducting emergency response missions in 21 counties across the state.
The Guard has deployed 450 tactical vehicles, 13 rotary-wing aircraft, and six boats to support rescue and relief operations. Their efforts are focused on aiding residents impacted by the storm, clearing debris, and addressing flooding concerns.
U.S. Northern Command Prepares to Assist
U.S. Northern Command has also deployed a small team to Florida to be ready to assist with relief efforts. This team is prepared to respond to requests from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and work in coordination with other federal agencies. The goal is to ensure that the response to Tropical Storm Helene is fast and efficient, minimizing the damage and helping those affected.
Other States Activate National Guard Units
In addition to Florida, several other states are preparing for the storm’s impact. North Carolina, Georgia, and Alabama have all activated hundreds of National Guard personnel to assist with emergency response efforts. These units are working alongside local authorities. They have ensured that communities are protected and able to recover from any damage caused by the storm. The coordinated efforts between the states and the federal government are essential to managing the widespread effects of Helene.
Dual Status Commanders Appointed in Florida and Georgia
To streamline efforts, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has approved requests from the Florida and Georgia National Guards for dual status commanders. These commanders, who can serve in both state and federal capacities, play a crucial role during disaster response.
A dual status commander is a National Guard, Air Force, or Army officer jointly managed by the Northcom commander and the National Guard Bureau chief. This system allows for quick coordination between state and federal agencies during times of crisis.
Singh emphasized the importance of being prepared, stating, “As you know, this is a rapidly evolving situation. The department remains prepared to support response efforts as necessary.”
Continued Assessment of the Situation
While the Defense Department focuses on supporting communities impacted by Tropical Storm Helene. It is also closely monitoring the situation in Lebanon. As the Pentagon gathers more information, it will continue to work with its international partners to assess any developments. For now, the priority remains on assisting those affected by the storm. By ensuring that emergency response teams are ready to handle any challenges that arise.
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