Alachua County urges citizens to stay vigilant and prepared as we expect hurricane-force winds and heavy rain impacts to Alachua County, starting with tropical storm-force winds as early as Tuesday evening. There is a chance for tornadoes. For perspective, this is expected to be a much stronger storm than Tropical Storm Irma.
The Emergency Operation Center is at a Level 2 activation. It will go to level 1 at 7 a.m. Tuesday.
Preparations are being made to open emergency shelters. More information on shelters will be forthcoming.
Alachua County will distribute sandbag bags (10 per car) at Wayside Park (11855 NW US 441) beginning at 10 a.m. today and ending at 5 p.m. At closing, sandbags, sand, and shovels will be available for self-serve. The location will be opened and staffed again from 8 a.m. until noon on Tuesday. Call your local city government for their sandbag locations.
Alachua County Offices will be closed beginning Tuesday at 1 p.m. and Wednesday. The decision to reopen will be based on the storm's impacts.
The 311 Emergency Information line is now activated. Call for the latest information and rumor control.
Please take the necessary precautions now to get you and your family ready. You should have your
hurricane kits and
plans in place.
For more information, contact Alachua County Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979 or
msexton@alachuacounty.us.
