Puerto Rico governor deploys rescuers to help with hurricane recovery

The governor of Puerto Rico deployed 12 rescuers to help with Hurricane Michael recovery efforts in Florida on Tuesday.

“When Puerto Rico faced the emergency caused by Hurricane Maria, we received great support from different jurisdictions,” Gov. Ricardo Rosselló said in a statement. “Now is the time to reciprocate this act of solidarity and help our brothers and sisters who need it most in Florida.”

The brigade includes search-and-rescue personnel, a doctor and a paramedic, according to Rafael Vega González, a spokesman for Rosselló. The group will stay for seven days, but could be extended depending on the needs of local agencies.

Last week, the island’s governor also signed an executive order to deliver humanitarian aid to the affected Florida counties.

“Governor [Rick] Scott appreciates all the help and support the Panhandle has received from Americans across the country, including from our fellow U.S. citizens from Puerto Rico,” said John Tupps, a spokesman for the Florida governor. He added that after last year’s Hurricane Maria ravaged Puerto Rico, “Scott did everything he could” to support the island.

After Maria, Scott deployed a brigade of Florida utility workers to Puerto Rico and donated a fleet of 25 Florida Highway Patrol vehicles to assist with law enforcement on the island. He has traveled to Puerto Rico eight times since the storm.