28 Floridians Evacuated From Jamaica, DeSantis Confirms

Much of the island was destroyed by Hurricane Melissa on Oct. 28.

Florida’s Lt. Gov. Jay Collins (R) and Emergency Managemeent Executive Director Kevin Guthrie (C) greet rescued Floridians back from Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa on Nov. 1, 2025. Courtesy of Lt. Gov. Jay Collins

Floridians trapped in Jamaica during Hurricane Melissa were flown home on Nov. 1.

Gov. Ron DeSantis announced that 28 residents of his state were flown off the devastated island after he directed the Florida Division of Emergency Management to begin evacuation efforts on Oct. 31. After working with local officials, the rescue flight left Saturday and arrived at Tampa International Airport that evening.