North Carolina sends more help to Puerto Rico to assist with Hurricane Maria recovery

RALEIGH, North Carolina (WTVD) -- North Carolina is sending a team of experts to help Puerto Rico with recovery efforts after Hurricane Maria.

The 10 are part of local and state emergency management staff and will help local officials coordinate disaster response and recovery efforts.

Six are state emergency management staff, three are emergency managers from Chatham, Haywood and Hyde Counties and one is a State Highway Patrol employee.

In a statement, Governor Roy Cooper said:

"Our hearts go out to the people of Puerto Rico and others working to clean up and rebuild from this year's hurricanes. Experience has taught us how devastating hurricanes can be, and we're fortunate to have strong teams of experienced professionals available to help Puerto Rico with its recovery."

The team flying out Tuesday will join 200 North Carolina National Guard troops already on the island, which was devastated by Hurricane Maria. They're clearing debris, restoring infrastructure, making temporary road repairs and more.

Puerto Rico requested the help and will reimburse the state for costs, according to Governor Roy Cooper's office.

They will be on the island for two weeks.