ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — As Maryland works through the aftermath of Tuesday morning's collapse of the Francis Scott Key Bridge, Florida's governor said the state is here to help.

Gov. Ron DeSantis said he has directed Florida's Department of Emergency to give assistance wherever it is needed.

A container ship crashed into one of the bridge's supports, causing the structure to snap and buckle at several points and tumble into the water in a matter of seconds. Several vehicles fell into the chilly waters, and rescuers searched for survivors.

"The State of Florida stands willing to help and our prayers are with the victims and first responders," DeSantis said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Maryland Transportation Secretary Paul Wiedefeld said all vessel traffic into and out of the port would be suspended until further notice, though the facility was still open to trucks.