HOUSTON — The Cajun Navy is in Houston as Tropical Storm Harvey continues to wreak havoc.
The Cajun Navy, formed 12 years ago after Hurricane Katrina ripped through Louisiana, is a group of everyday residents in their boats checking on and rescuing family, friends, neighbors and even strangers in need.
Harvey sent devastating floods pouring into the nation's fourth-largest city Sunday as rising water chased thousands of people to rooftops or higher ground and overwhelmed rescuers who could not keep up with the constant calls for help.
Toney Wade, commander of the volunteer-based group Cajun Coast Search and Rescue, says he and his team arrived in Houston around 4 a.m. Monday morning with high-water vehicles and five K-9 units in tow.
The Cajun Navy is urging those who are in need of rescue to contact them via its Facebook group.
The posted, "If you or someone you know are in need of rescue, please download the Zello app, type in Texas search and rescue, and then search for any search and rescue close to your vicinity. This will connect you with officials on the ground there that can navigate help your way."
Zello app for Android here. Zello app for iPhone here.
Also, if you have a boat and are able to provide assistance, Houston police is asking you to contact them at 713-881-3100.