On the night of Hurricane Helene’s landfall, our Anemoi disaster relief team was staged in a parking garage in Tallahassee, Florida. We remained on standby until approximately 2 AM, closely monitoring weather updates and preparing our equipment.

As the storm approached, winds intensified and heavy rain began to fall. At 2 AM, we received the go-ahead to deploy for road clearing and water rescue exercises. Our team quickly organized, gathering necessary tools and vehicles to address immediate needs in the community.

Once on the road, we encountered significant challenges. Fallen trees and rising water levels hampered our progress, necessitating quick assessments of safe routes. Our primary focus was to clear roads for emergency vehicles and conduct rescues in flooded areas.

Throughout the operation, we worked systematically to ensure safety and efficiency. Our training was put to the test as we navigated hazardous conditions, prioritizing the rescue of those stranded or in need of assistance.

The Anemoi team’s deployment during Hurricane Helene highlighted our commitment to disaster response and the importance of preparedness in the face of natural disasters. We remained focused on supporting the community and ensuring the safety of all residents during this critical time.