Oklahoma Task Force 1 continues to work long hours in Central Texas and New Mexico following the devastating Fourth of July flooding, with no timeline yet for their return.

The multi-agency task force has deployed multiple teams across two states to assist in both search and recovery operations after severe weather caused widespread flooding and destruction. While their focus has shifted from rescue to recovery, officials say the mission remains physically demanding and emotionally intense.

Heavy Flood Damage Creates Dangerous Conditions

Four Oklahoma Task Force 1 teams are currently operating in Central Texas, particularly along the Guadalupe River. The region remains heavily impacted by flooding, with steep banks, unstable mud, and debris fields as high as 30 feet complicating search efforts.

Crews from both the Oklahoma City and Tulsa metro areas are on-site, including three K9 units aiding in the search for missing individuals. Photos released by the task force show responders navigating dense brush, piles of debris, and flood-soaked terrain.

Tulsa and OKC Crews Work Together in the Field

The deployed Oklahoma teams include a combination of Tulsa Fire, Oklahoma City Fire, and other emergency responders. Officials say the blended structure allows for broader expertise and better coordination across mission types.

“These are challenging environments,” one team member said. “But the teams are prepared, trained, and committed to staying as long as they’re needed.”

Mission Expands to New Mexico

In addition to the teams working in Texas, Oklahoma has also sent an Incident Management Team (IMT) to New Mexico. That team includes 10 personnel from the Oklahoma Office of Homeland Security, Tulsa Police Department, and Oklahoma City Fire Department.

They are supporting local agencies with flood response coordination and logistics following similar severe weather conditions.

RELATED STORY: Tulsa police officers assist flood response efforts in New Mexico

From Rescue to Recovery

As the immediate threat to life diminishes in many areas, Oklahoma Task Force 1 is transitioning its mission focus to recovery.

Continued rainfall has delayed full access to some flooded regions, but responders remain on standby for any emergent rescues. Officials emphasize that the team's presence in Texas is still critical as communities assess the full scope of damage.

No Return Date Set

As of July 16, Oklahoma Task Force 1 has not announced a return date for any of its teams. The task force says its members are working day-to-day and will remain deployed as long as their assistance is required.

For updates or to support Oklahoma Task Force 1 efforts, residents can follow the Oklahoma Department of Emergency Management and Homeland Security on social media.

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