NEW YORK (1010 WINS) — Gov. Kathy Hochul announced Thursday that she is sending aid in the form of a swift water rescue team and emergency equipment to New York’s neighbors down the coast in North Carolina, where powerful Category 4 storm Hurricane Helene is expected to intensify.
A team of 16 swift water rescue personnel—made of members from the Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Services, the state’s Department of Environmental Conservation and State Police—were en route to Conover, North Carolina on Thursday.
We are deploying a 16-person swift water rescue team to assist communities that will be impacted by Hurricane Helene. New Yorkers always help our neighbors in times of need. Grateful to these brave New Yorkers for answering the call and I look forward to their safe return. pic.twitter.com/KTd0oPFPE4
— Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) September 26, 2024
Once they arrive, the resources will be deployed to areas most in need, officials said. In addition to personnel, two canines were deployed as well as emergency response equipment, including Zodiac boats and motors with trailers, two high-water rescue vehicles and drones.
“New Yorkers lead by example and help our neighbors in times of despair,” Hochul said. “Our expert swift water rescue team and the equipment they will bring with them will help save lives and protect against the potential destruction of property from Hurricane Helene. I thank these brave New Yorkers for answering the call and look forward to their safe return.”
Rain began battering parts of North Carolina on Thursday, with up to 10 inches having fallen in the mountains and up to 14 possible before the deluge ends. Gov. Roy Cooper has declared a state of emergency, joining the governors of South Carolina, Florida, Georgia and Virginia…