New Jersey is deploying dozens of National Guard members to Florida to help provide emergency response support ahead of Hurricane Irma.

Gov. Chris Christie announced Wednesday that more than 100 members of the 253rd Transportation Company, a Cape May-based squad outfitted with high-wheeled vehicles, will depart from their home armory in two stages. They are expected to arrive at Camp Blanding in central Florida as early as Friday.

“Our thoughts, prayers and necessary available resources are with all of those in Florida who are bracing for impact,” the governor said in a statement.

Christie noted that the unit has participated in all major domestic operations in New Jersey, including the response to Superstorm Sandy and Hurricane Irene.