Californians Headed to Oklahoma

Sacramento, CA – The destruction left by Monday’s devastating tornado that hit Oklahoma has Governor Jerry Brown pitching in to help with aftermath efforts. Brown has ordered the California Emergency Management Agency (CalEMA) to send specialists from California’s Urban Search & Rescue teams to assist in response and recovery efforts.

The help was requested from the Federal Emergency Management Agency or (FEMA). Six specialists are on their way to help coordinate and support operations by national task forces from Nebraska, Tennessee and Texas. Governor Brown says, “Our thoughts are with the communities impacted by Monday’s tornado and we stand ready to assist.”

The six specialists come from the Los Angeles County & City Fire Department, Oakland Fire Department, Sacramento City Fire Department and Orange County Fire Authority.

“We are monitoring the situation closely, are in contact with FEMA and will coordinate additional support if requested,” said California Emergency Management Agency (CalEMA) Secretary Mark Ghilarducci.

Eight California-based Urban Search and Rescue Task Forces provide California with approximately 640 personnel specializing in disciplines such as search and rescue, first aid, heavy equipment operations, canine search and rescue, hazardous materials, logistics and communications.