News Summary
Following devastating flash flooding in Texas Hill Country, Florida’s Task Force Four is deployed to aid search and rescue efforts. The team, comprising firefighters from Seminole County, Orange County, and Orlando, is working tirelessly to locate individuals still missing after the flooding claimed at least 134 lives. The task force’s challenging mission encompasses a vast search area, with ongoing support from local communities in Texas. Their commitment includes not only locating the missing but also managing the emotional well-being of responders amidst the crisis.
Austin, Texas – More than a week after flash flooding devastated Texas Hill Country, ongoing search and rescue operations are being bolstered by the deployment of Florida’s Task Force Four. This team, consisting of firefighters from Seminole County, Orange County, and the City of Orlando, is in Texas to assist in locating the many individuals still reported missing following the catastrophic flooding.
As of now, the flooding has claimed the lives of at least 134 individuals, with many more still unaccounted for. The Florida Urban Search & Rescue Task Force, which includes a 35-member unit led by Captain Michael Zielonka from Orange County Fire Rescue, has been tasked with conducting thorough searches along approximately 14 miles of river basin each day. Their objective is to locate those who are missing amid the destruction.
The challenging conditions have been exacerbated by the dramatic changes in the terrain due to the flooding. Unlike previous missions such as the Surfside condo collapse, this operation involves a larger, more varied search area that adds to the difficulty of the rescue efforts.
The mission for Task Force Four is scheduled to last 14 days; however, it may be extended if requested by the Texas governor. Another unit, Florida Urban Search and Rescue Task Force 8, is also contributing to the relief efforts. This team, deployed to Kerr County on July 7, 2025, consists of firefighters from Gainesville, Ocala, and Marion County Fire Rescue. They are currently stationed in Travis County as a Quick Reaction Force.
In total, over 60 first responders from Florida are actively engaged in recovery operations in Texas, working tirelessly to account for nearly 100 individuals still missing. Since their deployment, the teams have traveled approximately 250 miles under challenging conditions, including high temperatures ranging from the mid to upper 90s.
To support the responders, hydration and rest stations have been established, providing vital relief during their long hours in treacherous conditions that include high debris piles. A comfort support team has also been organized, featuring therapists available to help responders manage the emotional toll brought on by the often distressing scenes they face during the searches.
Despite the intensity of the operations, Florida’s search and rescue teams have expressed their gratitude for the warm hospitality and support received from the local community in Texas. Their commitment to helping those in need remains steadfast as they continue their crucial efforts in the aftermath of this devastating flood.
As the situation continues to unfold in Texas, the contributions from Florida’s task forces are integral to providing hope and assistance to families affected by this disaster. The ongoing collaboration between state agencies underscores the importance of community support and preparedness in facing such catastrophic events.
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Catastrophic Flooding in Texas Claims Over 100 Lives
Texas Faces Tragedy After Devastating Flash Floods
Catastrophic Flooding in Texas: Recovery Efforts Underway
Catastrophic Flooding Hits Kerr County, Texas
Tragic Losses Amidst Flash Flooding in San Antonio
Severe Storms Create Chaos Across the Southern and Midwest U.S.
Additional Resources
- WTSP News
- WJHG News
- 352 Today
- WESH News
- My News 13
- Wikipedia: Flood
- Google Search: Texas flood rescue
- Google Scholar: Disaster response
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Emergency management
- Google News: Texas flooding 2025
Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER
ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
