Walz Deploys MN First Responders to Aid Iowa Communities

[ST. PAUL, MN] – Governor Tim Walz announced Tuesday that eight Minnesota members of the Minnesota All Hazards Incident Management Team (MN-AHIMT) are traveling to Iowa to assist local first responders as communities begin recovering from tornadoes that tore through the Greenfield area.

Governor Walz authorized the 14-day mission following a request from Iowa officials through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC).

“In Minnesota we’re no strangers to the devastation of tornadoes. We know the heartbreak that accompanies the loss of homes and businesses and the necessity of working together to rebuild,” said Governor Walz. “In the wake of this storm, we are stepping up to support our neighbors. My heart goes out to the community of Greenfield as they recover.”

MN-AHIMT members are highly trained and skilled public safety professionals who serve in a variety of disciplines.

Upon arriving in Iowa, the emergency managers, firefighters, medical, law enforcement, and public works experts will support field operations and support with volunteer management, debris management, and the disaster declaration process.