LINCOLN, R.I. (WPRI) — As Hurricane Milton approaches the Gulf Coast of Florida, Rhode Island Energy crews are heading down to offer support.

Seven bucket trucks with 20 people left Tuesday morning to help Tampa Electric, which has called on crews from the Northeast as they anticipate widespread power outages.

This comes on the heels of Hurricane Helene, which tore through the Gulf Coast of Florida, parts of Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee and Virginia.

Rhode Island Energy had 18 people on the ground in Virginia four days ago. They were able to assist with pole replacements, running new wires, clearing trees, and patrolling lines before power was restored.

“You know this is where our team members really shine. Mutual assistance is the backbone of the utility industry. We made the decision and these team members were happy to answer the call as they do every day for our customers,” Rhode Island Energy President Greg Cornett said.

Cornett told 12 News they are sending down 13 linemen, at least one digger, as well as supervisors, field engineers and a mechanic.

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