Governor Henry McMaster authorized on March 31 the deployment of members from South Carolina State Fire’s Palmetto Incident Support Team to Hawaii to assist with recovery efforts following flash flooding.
The deployment aims to support ongoing operations in Honolulu County, where local, state, and federal partners are working together in response to the flooding. The initiative highlights the importance of mutual aid among states during disasters.
While in Hawaii, the team will integrate into the Honolulu County Emergency Operations Center. Their mission is coordinated through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a national system that enables states to help each other during emergencies. “South Carolina has seen firsthand how devastating flooding can be. When we have faced disasters, other states have offered their support,” said Governor Henry McMaster. “Now, it is our turn to do the same for the people of Hawaii. I am confident these seven members of our Palmetto Incident Support Team will provide critical assistance and help the Honolulu community begin to recover.” According to the official website, Henry McMaster leads as governor of South Carolina and serves its residents within state government administration while focusing on public safety and partnerships with local entities according to the Office of the Governor.
State Fire Marshal Jonathan Jones said: “This deployment reflects SC State Fire’s role in supporting national incident management efforts. Our team is prepared to integrate quickly, provide experienced support, and help sustain ongoing operations in Honolulu. It reinforces our mission to be the focal point for service and support to save lives and property, both within South Carolina and beyond.” The Office of the Governor also forms partnerships with local governments and organizations according to its official website.
South Carolina has previously assisted Hawaii through similar deployments after flooding in 2018 by sending a mitigation specialist and an Individual Assistance officer; it also provided remote A-Team support during wildfires in 2023.
Kim Stenson, Director of South Carolina Emergency Management Division, said: “South Carolina has long been committed to supporting our partner states through EMAC. Time and again, we’ve mobilized support for communities facing disasters across the Southeast, the West Coast, and beyond.” The governor’s office also focuses on issuing proclamations related to economic development initiatives as well as conservation programs according to its official site.
The broader impact underscores how state-level cooperation can enhance disaster response capabilities nationwide.
