DeSantis offers to support California as Hurricane Hilary approaches
Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R) has offered his state’s support to California, as Hurricane Hilary is expected to become the first tropical storm to hit the west coast of the U.S. in over 80 years.
“In Florida, we know how challenging storms can be and have significant experience responding in their wake -- we stand ready to help the people of California in any way we can,” DeSantis said on X, formerly Twitter.
Hurricane Hillary is expected to make landfall in Baja California, Mexico late Saturday and weaken into a tropical storm by the time it moves north into the U.S. on Sunday. It will be the first tropical storm in California since 1939.
The National Weather Service declared a tropical storm watch for southern California, the first in the state’s history, impacting San Diego on Friday.
The storm has sustained winds of over 125 mph as of Thursday morning while it approached Mexico, according to the National Hurricane Center.
Authorities in California and southern Nevada are preparing for heavy rain, strong winds and potential flash flooding. On Friday, Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo (R) activated 100 members of the state National Guard to prepare for the oncoming storm when it hits Las Vegas.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) warned southern California residents about the upcoming weather in a release Friday, and has mobilized state resources to help storm preparations and recovery.
“We should never underestimate the power of Mother Nature,” Newsom said. “California is coordinating with federal and local governments to support communities as they prepare for this unprecedented storm. Heed warnings from local authorities, be ready and stay informed.”
DeSantis’ offer echoes a similar one Newsom made last year when Hurricane Ian struck Florida. Ian was one of the most destructive hurricanes in the state’s history.
The neighborly attitude offers a brief pause in the pair’s political rivalry. Newsom and DeSantis have repeatedly criticized each others' policies, and have agreed to a debate in November.