New York state officials and military personnel are going to areas in Florida and Puerto Rico ravaged by hurricanes in recent days, Gov. Kathy Hochul on Wednesday announced.
Eleven service members from the New York Army National Guard along with two Chinook heavy lift helicopters will go to Florida to assist with airlift support in the wake of Hurricane Ian, Hochul said.
"We are grateful for the heroism of these New Yorkers who are answering the call of duty, as well as for the extraordinary efforts of all first responders currently working to provide aid and support to the people of Florida," Hochul said. "New York will always stand up and help our neighbors in a time of need."
Meanwhile, New York is also sending a delegation of officials to assist Puerto Rico after Hurricane Fiona slammed into the island and knocked out its fragile power grid. New York officials have previously called for increased federal support for Puerto Rico in the aftermath of the storm, including long-term fixes for its infrastructure.
The officials include New York Secretary of State Robert Rodriguez, Deputy Secretary to the governor Edgar Santana, Director of Latino Affairs Sophia Zayas and Deputy Secretary for Public Safety Marcos Gonzalez.
"When disaster strikes, New York has always been among the first to respond and assist the citizens of Puerto Rico in their time of need," Rodriguez said. "I am proud to be part to be part of this delegation and getting a first-hand look at how we can help our Puerto Rican brothers and sisters recover from the devastating effects of Hurricane Fiona."
New York previously sent 50 state troopers to assist with relief efforts for Puerto Rico. Hochul last week announced state insurance regulators would call on banks chartered in New York to take steps to aid consumers and businesses affected by the hurricane, including waiving ATM fees, increasing withdrawal limits and helping transmit funds.