It’s been raining cats and dogs in Greensboro but the problems in this city have not come close to the treacherous conditions that have been taking place in the western part of the state. That’s why, in response to a request from North Carolina Emergency Management, the Greensboro Fire Department has deployed 18 members of its Search and Rescue Team to help in search and rescue operations in Western North Carolina due to the impact of Hurricane Helene.

 The team from Greensboro will coordinate efforts with the Fayetteville Fire Department as part of a state-led deployment.

The team headed for Western North Carolina from Greensboro at midnight on Thursday, Sept. 26 and is expected to stay on assignment there for up to seven days.

When they arrive in Brevard, North Carolina, they’ll check in with local emergency management and find out how their skills can be best used.

Greensboro Fire Chief Jim Robinson said on Thursday that the team is always ready for events such as this.

“The safety of North Carolina’s residents is our top priority, and we are proud to assist in any way we can during this critical time,” he said. “Our Search and Rescue Team is well-trained and prepared to respond to the challenging conditions that come with hurricane-related disasters.”

A statement from the Greensboro Fire Department noted that the department “remains committed to providing aid wherever it is needed across the state” and added, “As the situation develops, the department will continue to update the community on the team’s progress and impact.”