Media Release

​ALACHUA COUNTY, FL - Due to the potential threat from Hurricane Matthew to the area, Alachua County Emergency Management encourages everyone to make preparations now for the possibility of impacts later this week. Currently, Matthew is making landfall along the southeast portion of Cuba, and will then make its way through the Bahamas and up the east coast of Florida. Alachua County is within the 5-day forecast cone and has a 30-40% chance of tropical storm force winds. The timing of this storm has impacts occurring from Thursday evening until as late as Saturday morning. Please monitor Alachua County Emergency Management’s Facebook page for up-to-date storm information.

A basic emergency supply kit could include the following recommended items:

• Water, one gallon of water per person per day for at least three days, for drinking and sanitation
• Food, at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food
• Battery-powered or hand crank radio and a NOAA Weather Radio with tone alert and extra batteries for both
• Flashlight and extra batteries
• First aid kit
• Whistle to signal for help
• Dust mask to help filter contaminated air and plastic sheeting and duct tape to shelter-in-place
• Moist towelettes, garbage bags and plastic ties for personal sanitation
• Wrench or pliers to turn off utilities
• Manual can opener for food
• Local maps
• Cell phone with chargers, inverter or solar charger

View additional checklists and kit suggestions.

Residents are also encouraged to stay informed about major storm conditions by following Alachua County on Facebook and Twitter, and subscribing to the County's press releases.

For more information, contact Alachua County Communications and Legislative Affairs Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979.