Virginia sends specialized water rescue teams to Texas to help with devastating flood recovery
Richmond, Virginia – In the wake of catastrophic flooding across Texas, Governor Glenn Youngkin has announced that two specialized Virginia rescue teams will deploy to aid in the state’s recovery efforts. The Virginia Type III Swift Water Rescue Teams, based out of Bristol and Virginia Beach, are scheduled to arrive in Texas on Monday, July 7, 2025.
Support in the Wake of Disaster
The historic flooding has left many Texas communities overwhelmed and in need of urgent assistance. As floodwaters continue to pose a serious threat, Virginia is stepping in to support its southern neighbor through swift, coordinated aid.
“Our hearts go out to the families and communities in Texas who have been devastated by these historic floods,” said Governor Glenn Youngkin. “We stand in solidarity with the people of Texas, and we are committed to offering any and all support requested during this critical time.”
The teams being deployed are specially trained and equipped with advanced gear designed for water-based rescues in extreme conditions. Their mission will focus on helping locate and rescue those stranded by floodwaters and providing operational support to first responders in the affected regions.
Mutual Aid in Action
The deployment was made in response to a formal request from the Texas Division of Emergency Management. It was coordinated through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), a mutual aid agreement among U.S. states that allows for the sharing of resources during emergencies.
EMAC plays a critical role in disaster response by enabling states to lend and borrow vital personnel and equipment. For this mission, Virginia’s contribution reflects a longstanding spirit of cooperation and unity in times of crisis.
With climate-related emergencies on the rise, the quick and strategic mobilization of resources like these swift water rescue teams has become more essential than ever. As the rescue operations continue, Virginia’s responders are prepared to offer life-saving aid and provide much-needed relief to those affected in Texas.
More information about EMAC and its disaster response framework is available at emacweb.org.
