(MyKeeneNow) A group of five professionals from New Hampshire’s Division of Homeland Security and Emergency Management (HSEM) has been dispatched to Florida to assist in the response to Hurricane Milton.

The team, which left today, will support ongoing efforts to manage the disaster and help communities recover from the storm’s impact, according to a news release.

Governor Chris Sununu emphasized the importance of the mission, noting that New Hampshire’s support will provide much-needed relief to Florida teams working around the clock. “We are ready to help in any way possible, whether through personnel or other resources,” Sununu stated. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Florida.”

The deployment comes as part of the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), a national framework that allows states to provide mutual aid during disasters. Florida’s Division of Emergency Management issued a request for support from other states’ emergency management agencies on October 5, seeking assistance for emergency operations.

Commissioner of the New Hampshire Department of Safety, Robert L. Quinn, highlighted the dedication of the team, expressing gratitude for their willingness to assist in the recovery efforts. “This deployment shows our unwavering commitment to serve those in need, no matter the distance.”

The HSEM team will spend the next two weeks in Florida, working within emergency operations centers. HSEM Director Robert Buxton expressed pride in his team’s commitment, stating, “Helping during times of crisis is what we are here for, and we’re honored to support our partners in Florida.”

This deployment follows an earlier mission by the New Hampshire National Guard, which sent personnel to Florida earlier in the week.