Oklahoma Crews And Volunteers Rally To Assist After Hurricane Helene

Several Oklahomans headed east to assist in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene. From Florida to Virginia, they are showing that Oklahomans care.

Holly Rowland with the Red Cross says the damage from Helene is difficult to comprehend. "We're seeing lots of downed trees and road closures. In Tallahassee specifically, we’re not seeing a lot of flooding, but we do anticipate some as we get closer to the coastal communities," she said.

Rowland is one of nine Oklahoma Red Cross volunteers in Florida, helping people with supplies and finding shelter. She expresses gratitude for being there during such a challenging time. "When you're part of the Red Cross, when you get the call, it's kind of a bug that bites you, and you have to help wherever you can," she said.

More than 80 linemen and women from Oklahoma stopped in Florida and are now headed to Virginia to help restore power lost due to flooding. "We will repair all the damage and continue to work until the lights are on," said Travis Andrews.

Andrews mentioned they will be working for about 12 days, and it's hard work, but they are happy to do it and help those who need it. "Everyone we see is so thankful and gracious that we are away from our families to assist. They want to bring us cookies and offer us water and Gatorade—it's really a sight to see," he said.

Oklahoma Task Force 1 is also aiding in Florida and is currently staged in Largo, assisting with search and rescue operations.