Crews work to repair a road that was damaged by Hurricane Ian in Pine Island in Lee County in Florida. | Florida Department of Transportation/Facebook
Crews work to repair a road that was damaged by Hurricane Ian in Pine Island in Lee County in Florida. | Florida Department of Transportation/Facebook
State leaders have begun the process of sending aid to Florida, with the promise for more, as it recovers from Hurricane Ian.
According to a news release issued by the state government, the state is ready to send the Michigan National Guard and Mutual Aid Box Alarm System (MABAS) as Florida residents try to recover from Hurricane Ian.
“DTE Energy answered the call for help by releasing 400 lineworkers to travel to Florida early in the week. These men and women were staged nearby and weathered the hurricane to be ready to begin restoration efforts as soon as it was safe,” Joseph Musallam, vice president of DTE Electric Distribution Operations, said in the release. “We’ve also alerted aid organizers in Georgia and the Carolinas that we will send additional DTE resources if needed. Our hearts are with the millions affected by this hurricane, and the thousands of utility workers from across the country who will be undertaking this dangerous and critical work.”
Roughly 70,000 people reside in both Florida and Michigan. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D-MI) said that the state is supplying fire trucks, supporting crew members and helicopters.
“Michigan’s heart is with Florida residents as they recover from Hurricane Ian,” Whitmer said. “During difficult times, Michiganders step up. The State of Michigan stands ready to provide relief to Florida and other states predicted to be impacted by Hurricane Ian. I am proud of all the utility workers, Michigan Red Cross, Michigan Humane Society, and countless other volunteers for heading to Florida to tackle the tough work ahead.”
DTE Energy, International Transmission Company (ITC) and Michigan Municipal Electric Utilities are among the utility and energy infrastructure companies that have been sent or are on standby ready to help.
“We are proud that several Members of the Michigan Municipal Electric Association (MMEA) were able to mobilize quickly to aid in the enormous power restoration efforts resulting from Hurricane Ian,” said Katie Abraham, Executive Director of MMEA. “MMEA Member municipalities are honored to be asked to assist, and it’s such an inspiration to see our utilities come together in great times of need.”
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