Oklahoma Task Force 1 leaves Florida, continues rescue efforts in North Carolina

BOONFORD, NC (KFOR) — Oklahoma Task Force 1 (OKTF-1) finished their mission Sunday evening in Florida as they continue search and rescue and damage assessment efforts following the aftermath of Hurricane Helene.

The crew arrived to Treasure Island, Florida around 2:30 a.m. on Friday, September 27, where they immediately began search and rescue efforts.

They rescued a 98-year-old woman who was trapped in her house and unable to use her walker due to her home being filled with five feet of water from the storm surge.

OKTF-1 finished their mission in Florida on Sunday before departing from Tampa Bay at 7 a.m. on Monday and arriving into Newton, North Carolina.

The team has been searching structures of the hardest hit areas while dealing with no internet connection and no infrastructure to give updates.

As of Wednesday, the crew made their way to Boonford, North Carolina, continuing to deal with phone signal trouble and no access to showers or restrooms.

According to the Tulsa Fire Department, the team has been camping with members of Oklahoma City area OKTF-1 during their time off from working.

"The team is healthy and in good spirits, but tired. They will continue to help North Carolina get through this difficult time," said Oklahoma Task Force 1 Manager Captain, Matt Bell.

Tulsa Fire Department says the team has been covering much ground as they continue to hike throughout the area during their search efforts.

Oklahoma Task Force 1 will be deployed for 14 days as they carry on with providing the Oklahoma Standard to states devastated by Hurricane Helene.