Gov. DeSantis Launches 'Operation Blue Ridge' to Aid NC and TN After Hurricane Helene

Sep 30, 2024, 04:33 PM

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has authorized the Florida National Guard to send air assets to North Carolina in response to Hurricane Helene, as reported by the Army. DeSantis announced that Florida is rapidly deploying assistance to North Carolina and Tennessee to aid in the aftermath of the hurricane. The initiative, named 'Operation Blue Ridge,' includes rescue missions, the deployment of Starlink internet, and rescue aircraft to the affected areas. DeSantis emphasized that Florida's recovery efforts are nearly complete, with search and rescue operations almost finished, power restored to over 2 million residents, and 12,300 miles of roadways cleared. He has called on federal agencies to direct their resources to North Carolina, stating that Florida has what it needs and that the federal government has more assets to assist. Additionally, 'Operation Blue Ridge' aims to help Floridians stranded in Western North Carolina.