Ohio Task Force 1 (OH-TF1) has been activated in response to severe flooding affecting Kentucky and neighboring states. The team was mobilized on Saturday evening as a Type III team and will remain in a “state of readiness” at their Vandalia headquarters until deployment is required, according to an official press release.
Task Force Leaders and Team Members
Task Force Leader Jim O’Connor will oversee the mission, leading a team of 47 members, including specialized water rescue personnel. Additionally, John Kaminski, another Task Force Leader, has been activated as part of the Red Incident Support Team (Red IST) and is set to travel toward Cincinnati.
Severe Weather Conditions Prompt Activation
The National Weather Service (NWS) has warned that a powerful storm system is causing life-threatening flooding across the eastern United States. Heavy rain on Saturday has already triggered significant flooding in:
Southwestern Virginia
West Virginia
Tennessee
Kentucky
Rising Water Levels Expected
The NWS further predicts that numerous rivers and streams across the region will reach moderate to major flood stages by early next week.
This activation highlights the critical role of OH-TF1 in emergency response efforts, providing swift water rescues and support to impacted communities.
Stay tuned for updates on the deployment and evolving weather conditions.