Governor DeSantis rescues 28 Floridians

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) - Florida evacuated 28 Floridians from Jamaica on Friday after Hurricane Melissa hit earlier this week, per a press release from the Governor’s Office.

According to the media release, FDEM began the operation on Friday under the Governor’s direction. The rescue flight reportedly landed at Tampa International Airport the next day.

Gov. DeSantis said the operation was not new to Florida. “Throughout my time as governor, Florida has rescued our residents from warzones and in the wake of natural disasters,” DeSantis said.

“Today’s operation in Jamaica brings stranded Floridians home in the wake of Hurricane Melissa. I am grateful for the efforts of our emergency management officials and partners who worked to make this happen.”

DeSantis said he learned of the stranded Floridians on Thursday and worked with other officials to get them back to Florida, according to a Twitter post from the governor.