The Nebraska Task Force 1 Urban Search and Rescue Team based in Lincoln has completed its work in Louisiana following Hurricane Ida. But the team may not be heading home to Nebraska quite yet.
LFR Battalion Chief Brad Thavenet they are waiting to hear from FEMA if they will be sent to the Northeast, where remnants of Hurricane Ida caused widespread flash flooding and record rainfall Wednesday night.
In Louisiana the crews primary duties were search-and-rescue operations. Thavenet says on Wednesday team members were involved in the evacuation of two elderly residents. “That had no means of communication due to cell service being down, electricity being out and had no way to evacuate themselves.”
He says the 40-person team was involved in more than 100 evacuations earlier in the week. Thavenet says until they receive further direction though the team is relaxing, fulfilling administrative duties and taking some down time. “Everyone is in good spirits. They wanted to help, and they’re kind of bummed out to know their service has ended.”