Florida National Guard soldiers are working closely with civilian partner agencies, clearing downed power lines outside of Perry, FL. VIA FLORIDA NATIONAL GUARD FACEBOOK PAGE

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. – At the direction of Gov. Ron DeSantis, the Florida National Guard (FLNG) is fully activated for Hurricane Idalia response operations with approximately 5,500 soldiers and airmen.

The 53rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team is conducting immediate response operations with multi-purpose units in western coastal counties.

According to a media release, they also have units providing reinforcement throughout central and northeast Florida, as well as providing support to the State Logistics Response Center (SLRC) and County Emergency Operation Centers (EOC).

Mobilized units are postured to support humanitarian assistance, route clearance, search and rescue, traffic control, aviation, and security missions throughout the area of operations.

The Florida National Guard is well-equipped, with assets including high-wheeled vehicles, helicopters, boats, and more.

The Florida National Guard currently has:

• 2,400 vehicles to include high mobility and high-water vehicles

• 14 FLARNG helicopters strategically placed around the state

• 23 small watercraft ready to support search and rescue and reconnaissance missions.

Source: Florida National Guard