After nearly three weeks in Kerr County, Texas, members of Nevada Task Force 1 are heading home to Las Vegas. The 47-person team deployed on July 8 to assist federal and local agencies responding to deadly flooding along the Guadalupe River.

The deployment focused on difficult terrain that other units couldn’t reach. Emergency responders from six Southern Nevada jurisdictions and four trained K9s worked through debris, mud, and heat to locate the missing and clear flood-ravaged areas.

Rescue workers and heavy machinery clear debris from a flooded area, showcasing the challenging terrain after recent flooding.

FEMA’s trusted Nevada-based search unit

Nevada Task Force 1is the only FEMA Urban Search and Rescue team in the state. It is led by the Clark County Fire Department and includes members from Las Vegas Fire, Henderson, North Las Vegas, Boulder City, and the National Nuclear Security Administration. Because FEMA funds all deployment costs, local departments can respond without financial strain.

Swift action in remote areas

As conditions shifted,Nevada Task Force 1remained fully engaged. Even after the number of reported missing persons dropped to three, crews worked without pause. Teams used boats to reach isolated locations, conducting secondary searchesthrough debris piles along the riverbanks. These actions ensured that no victims were left behind.

Reinforced K9 teams improve coverage

Six additional K9 units arrived midway through the mission. As floodwaters receded, crews moved faster. The search dogs, working alongside experienced handlers, helped verify that each assigned zone was cleared. As a result, overall progress accelerated in the final days.

A group of members from Nevada Task Force 1 gathered outside, some in uniform and others in casual clothing, during a break from their deployment efforts in Texas.

Press briefing scheduled for early next week

A media availability will take place early next week. Returning team members will answer questions and share insights from the deployment. Recently released photos show the difficult terrain, operational setup, and the strength of interagency teamwork.

Their work matters more than ever

Each mission highlights why Nevada Task Force 1 is so vital. In Texas, they delivered fast, organized, and precise help when every hour counted. Their impact continues to grow as natural disasters increase nationwide. I believe this team has more than earned national respect—and will continue setting the standard.

Contributing Editor Alan Merritt

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Alan Merritt serves as Contributing Editor for News Now, providing editorial leadership, investigative reporting, and special coverage coordination across New York, Las Vegas, Paris, and international assignments. He works closely with the editorial team to develop in-depth features, oversee major news projects, and expand the organization’s global news coverage. His experience in journalism, newsroom strategy, and investigative reporting helps strengthen Just Now News’ commitment to delivering timely, accurate, and independent journalism.

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