MARION COUNTY, FL (352today.com) – Florida Urban Search and Rescue Task Force 8 (TF-8) is officially on its way back to North Central Florida after completing a demanding two-week deployment in Texas, where they assisted with emergency response efforts following widespread flooding.

According to Marion County Fire Rescue, the team was deployed July 7 and immediately got to work, performing critical search and rescue operations across hard-hit areas including Kerr County and Cow Creek in Travis County. Their missions included both hasty and grid searches along rivers and creeks swollen by floodwaters.

One TF-8 member even provided support from the air, participating in helicopter reconnaissance missions. As flash flood warnings prompted changes in strategy, the team was redeployed to Lampasas County to serve as a swift water quick reaction force, ready to respond at a moment’s notice.

Task Force 8 rescue truck driving through shallow floodwaters in Kerr County, Texas
Flood-damaged docks partially underwater in Lake Travis with hillside homes in background
Rescue team member stands near trees checking notes during Texas flood mission
Florida Task Force 8 member wearing helmet and gear stands near flood debris in Texas
Task Force 8 vehicle drives through flooded creek while team member monitors from shore
Task Force 8 truck with mounted red rescue boat parked at deployment site
Task Force 8 team members search along rocky creek in Texas during flood response
Task Force 8 member monitors floodwaters in Kerr County, Texas during search and rescue mission
Florida Task Force 8 deployed to Texas in July 2025 to assist with search and rescue operations following severe flooding. Over two weeks, team members conducted ground and aerial missions across multiple counties, navigating treacherous terrain, rising waters, and storm debris. Courtesy: Marion County Fire Rescue

Throughout the deployment, TF-8 members demonstrated adaptability, commitment, and courage, helping to protect lives in rapidly changing and dangerous conditions.

Early Monday morning, the team began the 1,100-mile journey back to Florida.

“We couldn’t be prouder of their selfless efforts in supporting our fellow Americans in Texas,” Marion County Fire Rescue said in a statement.

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