Sanjeev “Sonny” Bhagowalia Assistant Commissioner | U.S. Customs and Border Protection
As Hurricane Helene continues to impact North Carolina, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is finalizing its preparations for the approaching Hurricane Milton in Florida. The agency has activated a Lead Field Coordinator (LFC) to oversee essential operations in affected areas. CBP's priorities include lifesaving activities, safe evacuations, maintaining public order, preventing property loss, and aiding in the region's recovery.
Carlos Martel, CBP’s Lead Field Coordinator and Director of Field Operations for the Miami-Tampa Field Office, stated: “As the nation’s largest law enforcement agency, Customs and Border Protection has deeply rooted local, state, and federal partnerships and we contribute many specialized capabilities that uniquely position CBP as a vital component of disaster response operations.” He emphasized concern for the health and safety of those at risk, including front-line officers and agents.
CBP has instructed Ports of Entry in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina to take measures to protect employees and assets while pre-deploying resources for post-storm efforts. Following Hurricane Milton's passage, CBP will conduct employee accountability checks and facility assessments while participating in coordinated recovery operations.
Personnel across Florida, Georgia, and the Carolinas are collaborating with federal and state emergency agencies. Communication with airport and seaport stakeholders remains ongoing until operations are suspended due to the storm.
Residents should monitor local news for updates on Hurricane Milton's progress and follow safety instructions from officials. Updates can also be found on social media platforms @FLSERT and @femaregion4.
CBP's various units are prepared to deploy during major disasters with specialized expertise. They have strategically positioned aircrafts, vessel crews, Special Operations Group agents—including BORSTAR—and Disaster Assistance Response Teams to conduct search-and-rescue missions and damage assessments when safe.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection remains America's frontline law enforcement organization dedicated to protecting national security through collaboration and innovation.
