Latest news with #FlightRestrictions
Newsweek
07-07-2025
- Politics
- Newsweek
Texas Flooding: Drone, Helicopter Collide Amid Search and Rescue, City Says
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Emergency operations in flood-stricken Kerr County, Texas, suffered a setback on Monday when a privately operated drone collided with a helicopter involved in emergency operations, city officials said. Newsweek reached out to Kerrville Mayor Joe Herring Jr. via email for additional comment. Why It Matters Over 90 people have died with dozens still missing following the flash flooding on the Guadalupe River. An all-girls camp in Kerr County, Camp Mystic, confirmed over 25 staffers and campers have died following the deadly surge. Search and rescue missions are ongoing in the region as President Donald Trump signed a Major Disaster Declaration for the area while noting over 800 people have been saved. What To Know In a post on Facebook Monday by Kerrville City Hall, officials reiterated that private drones need to be grounded following the collision. "This afternoon, a private drone illegally operating in restricted airspace collided with a helicopter involved in emergency operations in Kerr County. The helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing, and a critical piece of response equipment is now out of service until further notice," the post read. Continuing, city officials said, "This was entirely preventable." "Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) are not suggestions. They are federal airspace rules designed to protect lives during emergency situations. When you fly a drone in restricted areas, you're not just breaking the law -- you're putting first responders, emergency crews, and the public at serious risk," Kerrville City Hall concluded. Kerr County Sheriff's Office gave an update on local flood fatalities on Facebook Monday saying 84 deceased have been found as of 2 p.m. CT. That number includes 56 adults and 28 children, the sheriff's office says. Ten campers from Camp Mystic remain unaccounted for along with one counselor. "We ask private boat owners to stay off the Guadalupe River and its tributaries at this time to allow search and rescue teams to operate without interference," the sheriff's office also asked. A Blackhawk Helicopter can be seen flying over the Guadalupe River near Camp Mystic looking for survivors or the remains of victims swept up in the flash flooding on July 7, 2025, in Hunt, Texas.... A Blackhawk Helicopter can be seen flying over the Guadalupe River near Camp Mystic looking for survivors or the remains of victims swept up in the flash flooding on July 7, 2025, in Hunt, Texas. (Photo by) More What People Are Saying Texas Senator Ted Cruz, a Republican, on X (formerly Twitter) on Monday: "In the face of disaster, Texans come together. This is every parent's nightmare, but we will come through this." Trump on Truth Social on Sunday: "I just signed a Major Disaster Declaration for Kerr County, Texas, to ensure that our Brave First Responders immediately have the resources they need. These families are enduring an unimaginable tragedy, with many lives lost, and many still missing. The Trump Administration continues to work closely with State and Local Leaders. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem was on the ground yesterday with Governor Greg Abbott, who is working hard to help the people of his Great State. Our incredible U.S. Coast Guard, together with State First Responders, have saved more than 850 lives. GOD BLESS THE FAMILIES, AND GOD BLESS TEXAS!" Texas Governor Greg Abbott on X on Monday: "DPS troopers continue recovery and rescue operations in Kerr County. They have been working day and night. We will not stop until every missing person is found." What Happens Next Emergency search and recovery teams continue to operate in Kerr County and surrounding communities, with federal and state authorities coordinating to address immediate needs.
Yahoo
17-03-2025
- General
- Yahoo
What to know about flying drones at Peoria's St. Patrick's Day parade
PEORIA, Ill. (WMBD) — Those planning to fly drones at St. Patrick's Day Parade in downtown Peoria on Monday are reminded to follow responsible and safe practices. In a post on their Facebook page, the Peoria Police Department laid out rules and regulations, as well as penalties for those who do not follow proper procedures when it comes to flying drones at the parade on March 17. 'Airspace over large public gatherings, like our parade, presents unique safety challenges. We understand the appeal of capturing aerial footage, but public safety is our top priority,' the post said. In the post, they laid out the following key safety rules: · FAA Regulations: All drone operators must adhere to Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations. This includes, but is not limited to, registering your drone, flying within visual line of sight, and respecting Temporary Flight Restrictions (TFRs) that may be in place. · No-Fly Zones: During the parade, specific areas along the route may be designated as temporary no-fly zones. Please be aware of and respect these restrictions. Information regarding TFRs can be found on the FAA's website. · Crowd Safety: Do not fly directly over people or moving vehicles. Maintain a safe distance and be aware of your surroundings. A drone malfunction or loss of control can cause serious injury. Not complying with not only FAA's rules but also local ordinances can result in civil fines from the FAA, reckless endangerment charges and confiscation of your drone, the post said. Police officers will be monitoring the route with their drone team as well as officers on the ground to make sure all rules and regulations are being followed. 'We encourage all drone operators to fly responsibly and safely. Let's work together to ensure a safe and enjoyable St. Patrick's Day for everyone,' the post said. All questions on drone regulations can be found by visiting the FAA's website, as well as contacting the Peoria Police Department's Drone Commander at 309-494-8303. Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
