TALLAHASSEE, Fla. \u2013 Gov. Ron DeSantis announced on Saturday the evacuation of 28 Floridians from Jamaica following the devastating impacts of powerful Category 5 Hurricane Melissa.<\/p>\n
According to a news release, the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM) began evacuation efforts on Friday, working closely with local officials to ensure the safe return of Floridians. The rescue flight departed Jamaica Saturday morning and landed at Tampa International Airport.<\/p>\n
[VIDEO: Widespread deaths, devastation in Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa]<\/p>\n
Hurricane Melissa made landfall near New Hope, Jamaica, on the Tuesday afternoon, as a catastrophic Category 5 storm. <\/p>\n
\u201cToday\u2019s operation in Jamaica brings stranded Floridians home in the wake of Hurricane Melissa,\u201d Gov. DeSantis said. \u201cI am grateful for the efforts of our emergency management officials and partners who worked to make this happen.\u201d<\/p>\n
[VIDEO: Dan Newlin partners with Shaggy to send relief flights to Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa]<\/p>\n
With maximum sustained winds reaching 185 mph, Melissa ranks among the most powerful hurricanes ever recorded in the Atlantic Basin and is the strongest to make landfall in Jamaica. The storm caused widespread damage to homes, infrastructure and essential services across the island.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis rapid response reflects the strength of Florida\u2019s emergency management system and our commitment to providing timely, coordinated support,\u201d said FDEM Executive Director Kevin Guthrie. \u201c<\/p>\n
[VIDEO: Jamaican groups in Central Florida mobilize over Hurricane Melissa impact]<\/p>\n
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