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WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump headed to Florida and Georgia on Monday to view the damage caused by Hurricane Michael.
The storm last week claimed at least 19 lives, with dozens of people still missing. Thousands of residents in the affected areas — from Florida to Virginia — remain without power, with damage from the storm expected to total in the billions of dollars.
“Will be leaving for Florida and Georgia with the First Lady to tour the hurricane damage and visit with FEMA, First Responders and Law Enforcement. Maximum effort is taking place, everyone is working very hard. Worst hit in 50 years,” Trump tweeted before leaving the White House Monday morning.
The Trumps were greeted by Florida Governor Rick Scott, FEMA administrator Brock Long, former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, among others, as they touched down on the Florida Panhandle to tour the devastation.
With 155 mph winds and storm surges reaching 14 feet, Michael was the most powerful storm on record to ever hit the Florida Panhandle.
The president and first lady took an aerial tour of the devastated coastline, flying over barren trees and roofless homes. They plan to visit Georgia later in the day.
The president visited North and South Carolina last month in the wake of Hurricane Florence.