Doctors, nurses travel to Orlando before Hurricane Irma hits

ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. — More than 300 doctors, nurses and other medical professionals were sent to Orlando with the help of the U.S. Air Force before Hurricane Irma hits.

Three C-17s from Joint Base Charleston, in South Carolina and Dover Air Force Base, in Delaware flew the group Saturday.

"When the world presents a challenge, our airmen adjust to meet need and do what it takes to accomplish the mission,” said Gen. Carlton Everhart II, Air Mobility Command commander. “Our airmen are mission ready and prepared to help others impacted by Hurricane Irma while meeting worldwide needs."

Florida Gov. Rick Scott made a plea Saturday for volunteer nurses to help at shelters across the state.

The Department of Health and Human Services has coordinated the medical efforts to Florida to assist in the needs following Hurricane Irma.

The hurricane made landfall in Marco Island just after 3:30 p.m. Sunday.

Cox Media Group