TECO sends help to Dominica after Maria

TAMPA (970 WFLA) -- It's only been days since they finished restoring power here. Now Tampa Electric is sending people down to a Caribbean island that was devastated by Hurricane Maria.

The storm crossed Dominica as a category five. TECO spokesperson Cherie Jacobs says they're helping out a sister company, DOM-LEC. The power utility for that island is owned by Emera, the Canadian firm that bought TECO last year. 

Jacobs says six security contractors have been sent to Dominica, to back up power crews and assist with humanitarian efforts. 

They probably need the protection. Dominica was beset by lawlessness and looting after Maria moved through last week. 

Conditions are daunting on the island. Of course, there's no power, and cell communication remains nonexistent. The TECO crew is only able to communicate with the outside world through satellite phone. 

Jacobs says TECO expects to send a relief crew, along with other aid and assistance as needed. 

Photo Credit Tampa Electric


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