Late Sunday night, the North Carolina Emergency Management Division requested assistance from the Raleigh Fire Department’s urban search and rescue team in response to severe flooding in Alamance County caused by Tropical Depression Chantal. Captain Ben Mallard of the Raleigh Fire Department anticipated the need for help as he monitored weather conditions.
Tropical Depression Chantal brought up to 10 inches of rain to some areas, leading to significant flooding. “That water spilled out from creeks and was just ripping across streets and yards,” Mallard explained, emphasizing the speed and force of the floodwaters.
Captain Mallard, a firefighter with nearly 17 years of experience, highlighted both the challenges and rewards of responding to such calls. He noted that while these situations are intense, they also provide an opportunity to assist communities lacking resources or manpower. “We know there are plenty of departments who don’t have the equipment and resources we do. Or maybe they just need more hands to pitch in and offer support,” said Mallard. “It feels good to be able to help our neighbors when they need it most.”
