DES MOINES, IA — In response to the recent tornadoes and severe weather the State of Iowa has requested assistance through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).
Key Points:
- EMAC Activation: Upon the activation of EMAC, an Incident Management Team from Minnesota deployed to Greenfield, IA to assist with response and recovery efforts.
- Scope of Assistance: EMAC resources will include a team of emergency management professionals to fill positions in operations, logistics, finance, planning, and public information.
- Impact of EMAC: To date, EMAC has been a critical tool in supporting response and recovery efforts across the United States. EMAC is a vital interstate compact that provides a proven mutual aid framework allowing states to share resources during times of disaster or emergency. This collaboration underscores our collective commitment to safeguarding lives and protecting property during emergencies and disasters.
"The deployment of an Incident Management Team from Minnesota is a tremendous help for us in addressing the challenges posed by the devastating tornado in Greenfield. This support enables us to continue response and recovery efforts and provides much-needed relief to our dedicated Iowa emergency management professionals and first responders who are working tirelessly on the ground." expressed John Benson, Director of the Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management.
About EMAC:
The Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC) is a nationally adopted mutual aid agreement sanctioned by Congress and ratified by all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and the Northern Mariana Islands. This partnership allows Members to assist one another in responding to all types of emergencies or disasters using resources from all disciplines, including the National Guard. Through EMAC, states, territories, and the district can share resources, personnel, and expertise to enhance response capabilities, recover more quickly, and save lives. EMAC ensures effective support is readily available and can be mobilized rapidly across borders during emergencies or disasters, reinforcing the commitment of states to work collaboratively in times of crisis. EMAC not only strengthens local response and recovery efforts but also demonstrates the nation is committed to the premise of neighbor helping neighbor in the face of disasters. Learn more about EMAC at www.emacweb.org.
About the Department:
The Iowa Department of Homeland Security and Emergency Management leads, coordinates, and supports homeland security and emergency management functions to enhance the quality of life for Iowans by preparing our State and building resilient communities. Follow the department on social media, Facebook, facebook.com/IowaHSEMD,X (Formerly Twitter), twitter.com/IowaHSEMD.