Alachua County Emergency Management continues to monitor the tropical system in the Atlantic.
The track of Tropical Depression 4 has shifted a bit more to the west and has slowed down which increases the possibility that the system could strengthen. Although the potential impacts to North Central Florida are becoming more likely, the exact impacts to Alachua County are still unclear. We can expect to see heavy rains, gusty winds, and localized flooding, but the impacts could change depending on how long the system stays over the Gulf.
It is important to remember that Alachua County is already between 4-7 inches above our normal 30-day rainfall totals, so our area is already saturated. It may not take as much rain to cause some areas to flood. As of right now, this storm is expected to begin impacting Alachua County on Sunday, so residents and visitors should be taking steps early to secure property in areas that are at high risk for flooding. Homes and other properties in flood prone areas should be assessed to determine if there are ways to protect the property from flooding danger.
Monitor the US National Weather Service website at weather.gov/jax for the latest storm information, including anticipated local impacts. You can find the latest National Weather Service briefing packet, which is updated regularly at https://tinyurl.com/NWSJAX.
To aid our residents as the storm approaches, Alachua County has activated the 311 Emergency Information Line (352-264-6557 if 311 is unavailable in your area). This is for questions and rumor control.
If you have a true emergency call 911.
Sign up for text alerts by texting the word ALACHUA to 888-777 to stay fully informed of any disaster related information related specifically to Alachua County.
Information on sandbags, closures, and other protective measures can be found at AlachuaCountyReady.com.
For more information, contact Alachua County Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979 or msexton@alachuacounty.us.
