Ian's path is
currently projected to make landfall anywhere from the panhandle to the Keys.
Although there are still a lot of areas this storm can go, it is more likely
that it will be a Florida storm, which could affect Alachua County next week.
There is a
good chance that this storm could become a major hurricane before making
landfall, so early preparedness is a must. Take the weekend to make sure you
and your family have taken all necessary preparedness steps so that if this
storm decides to make its way to Alachua County, you will be ready. Doing things
like trimming tree branches, securing lawn furniture, storing toys, tools, and
grills, cleaning gutters, and removing obstructions around windows can help
prepare your home for winds and heavy rainfall.
"As a
community, we are stronger than the individual," said Alachua County
Emergency Manager Jen Grice. "We encourage all of our residents to reach
out to their friends, families, and neighbors to provide help and encouragement
to those that may have a more difficult time getting prepared. Whole community
preparedness ensures that if disaster does strike, we will be able to bounce
back quicker and stronger."
The "Cone
of Uncertainty" is a tool and graphic that is most commonly used, but
there is still a great deal of confusion about what it actually means and how
to interpret it properly. We urge you to watch this 3-minute video produced by
the NOAA NWS National Hurricane Center that explains exactly how to understand
the "Cone" https://youtu.be/04QRN5gUe08
For more information, contact Alachua County
Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979 or msexton@alachuacounty.us.
