Governor Ivey deploys National Guard to North Carolina in wake of Helene

ALABAMA ( WHNT ) — Alabama Governor Kay Ivey has announced she is deploying an Alabama National Guard team to help areas of North Carolina heavily impacted by Hurricane Helene.

The governor’s office said the 13-person team consists of 11 airman from around the state along with a chaplain and chaplain’s assistant. The 11 airmen serve as Alabama’s Fatality Search and Recovery Team (FSRT).

“Hurricane Helene left warzone-like devastation in its path, and Alabama is here to lend a helping hand as our neighboring states begin responding and recovering,” The governor said. “North Carolina was especially impacted, and without hesitation, I am directing an Alabama National Guard team, in addition to other first responders, to aid in the search and rescue mission there. I pray for the safety of this team and that they are successful in their mission to rescue as many people as possible in the devastated parts of North Carolina.”

The activation order for FSRT comes as several western North Carolina counties endured flooding, with reports of more than 1,000 people missing after the storm.

“Our hearts go out to our brothers and sisters who have felt the worst of this storm,” National Guard Adjutant General Maj. General David Pritchett said. “This team is well-trained and well-equipped, and the prayers of our entire force are with them as they work to bring rescue to as many as possible and closure to the families of those we have lost.”

FSRT is a component of the Alabama National Guard’s CERFP, a Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and high-yield Explosives (CBRNE) Emergency Response Force Package.

Alabama has also sent three Swift Water Rescue Teams with 1 cadaver Dog team.

The governor said she also continues to pray for all those impacted by Hurricane Helene and is prepared to offer additional assistance.

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