Virginia Task Force 2 (VA-TF2) Member Activated in Response to Extreme Rainfall and Flooding in Washington State

A member of Virginia Task Force 2 (VA-TF2) deployed Thursday, December 11, 2025, as part of the White Incident Support Team (IST) in response to severe weather affecting the Pacific Northwest. Heavy rainfall across the region has increased the risk of flooding, landslides, and damage to critical infrastructure.

Following deployment preparations, Division/Group Supervisor Jamey Brads departed early Thursday and later rendezvoused with FEMA IST personnel in the Tacoma–Puget Sound region of Washington. In his role as a Division Supervisor, Brads serves as a liaison to local county and city emergency operations centers (EOCs) and provides oversight of assigned Task Forces, ensuring missions are carried out safely and effectively.

VA-TF2 USAR is one of 28 FEMA Urban Search and Rescue Teams positioned across the country. The Virginia Beach Fire Department is the sponsoring agency for VA-TF2. VA-TF2 has conducted search and rescue operations in the aftermath of numerous disasters.