The Los Angeles County Fire Department is sending 40 firefighters from its California Task Force 2 as Hurricane Douglas threatens Hawaii.
The firefighters will be deployed by the Department of Homeland Security and FEMA in order to potentially help with search and water rescue efforts, KCAL-TV reports. Along with the firefighters, more than 60,000 pounds of equipment and two K9 units also will be sent to the island state.
“To be able to serve not only our community here locally in Los Angeles County but also the state and also the nation as a whole, which is very enriching,” Battalion Chief Robert Harris told KCBS. “We do appreciate just the opportunity to be able to go and hopefully make a difference.”
Hurricane warnings have been issued for Oahu and Kauai and Maui counties. The eye is expected to move near or just north of those areas through Sunday night, and the storm could generate heavy rains that could cause flash flooding and mudslides.
Before being deployed, firefighters will be tested for COVID-19 as the state continues to struggle with new cases of the virus.
