Phoenix first responders continue aid efforts in storm-torn North Carolina

PHOENIX – A team of first responders from Arizona helping with search and aid efforts in storm-ravaged North Carolina remained on the job Monday, as the massive storm Florence wreaked havoc for a fifth straight day.

Phoenix Fire Capt. Rob McDade said in an email Arizona Task Force 1 helped with the rescue of 82 people since its arrival in Trenton, North Carolina, on Sunday. The majority of assists were for air operations.

The team of 35 had spent its first days in Beaufort County, South Carolina, on search and public welfare runs.

Phoenix Fire Department Capt. Kenny Overton told KTAR News 92.3 FM he didn’t know how long the team would be away.

“It’s a pretty rough state of affairs there,” Overton said Sunday.

At least 17 deaths have been reported from Hurricane Florence, which has brought catastrophic flooding and destruction since making landfall Thursday.

Florence was downgraded to a tropical depression by Monday, and was moving north. The storm stretched across at least six states, but the hardest hit were the Carolinas.

(National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Image)

Besides hidden dangers such as sharp branches or broken pipes, Overton said added the 25 firefighters on the team faced the possibility of exposure to contaminants.

They can wear scuba dry suits if they have to venture into water, Overton said.

Anyone who goes into standing water is decontaminated later, Phoenix Fire Capt. Jake Van Hook said in an email.

“The team has medical capabilities to attend to and monitor the medical needs and health of team members including a physician,” the email said.

Ten support personnel are also on the team of first responders.

Another Arizona team put together by various agencies, including Arizona State Forestry and Peoria Fire, was working out of Laurinburg, North Carolina.

Follow @KTAR923