Golden State Today

SACRAMENTO – As Tropical Storm Debby approaches Georgia, Governor Gavin Newsom announced the deployment of a specialized team from California to assist in staffing a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Incident Support Team.

In coordination with FEMA, the Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES) is deploying 10 specialists from California’s Urban Search and Rescue (US&R) Task Forces’ Incident Support Team. The deployment will not impact California’s emergency response and firefighting capabilities.

"California stands with the people of Georgia as the threat of Tropical Storm Debby approaches. As we continue combatting wildfires in California, we’re grateful to have support from other states, and with these specialized teams, we’re glad to do the same to help save more lives," said Governor Gavin Newsom.

The Incident Support Team comprises highly qualified specialists who provide local officials with technical assistance and management and coordination of US&R resources. This team includes personnel from Los Angeles City, Orange County, Riverside City, Sacramento City, and San Diego City fire departments.

As California sends this team to Georgia, it continues its efforts against the Park Fire burning in Butte, Plumas, Shasta, and Tehama counties. This effort is supported by 36 fire engines, four helicopters, and 175 personnel from Arizona, Nevada, Texas, and Utah through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).

Support for Georgia amid Tropical Storm Debby follows California's ongoing efforts to aid other states during emergencies. Last month saw Governor Newsom send fire and rescue personnel to Texas for Tropical Storm Beryl. Additionally, he sent personnel to New Mexico for the South Fore and Salt Fires. Last year witnessed deployments of Urban Search and Rescue members to Hawaii for wildfire response. In 2022 alone, California deployed firefighters and disaster recovery experts to Oregon, New Mexico, and Montana.

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