Hurricane Milton Update 3 – County Offices Closed

​Due to Hurricane Milton’s anticipated effects, all Alachua County government offices will be closed on Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10, 2024. 

Other County closures include:

  • City of Gainesville: Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10.
  • The State Department of Health in Alachua County: closing at noon on Tuesday, October 8, and all day on Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10.
  • The University of Florida: Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10.
  • Alachua County Public Schools and School Board: Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10.
  • Alachua County Libraries: Wednesday, October 9, and Thursday, October 10.
  • City of Waldo: closing noon on Wednesday, October 9, and all day on Thursday, October 10.


If you have questions about a government agency being open that is not on the list, please contact them directly.

Special Needs Registry

Alachua County Emergency Management encourages those with special needs to register online for the Special Needs Registry Program. The Alachua County Special Needs Registry is specifically targeted at individuals who have certain physical or medical conditions and no options to shelter at home, with friends, family, or elsewhere during a disaster.

The Registry enables Alachua County Emergency Management and Alachua County Department of Health staff to coordinate needs with registrants in advance of tropical weather or other incidents requiring sheltering. 

Preparing for the storm

Alachua County residents are urged not to underestimate the potential impact of this storm. Take precautions now to ensure the safety of your family and property. Make sure your hurricane kits and emergency plans are ready.

Important actions to take include:

  • Secure loose items around your home that could be carried by strong winds.
  • Protect properties in flood-prone areas.
  • Trim tree limbs around windows and clear debris.
  • Move vehicles away from trees.
  • Ensure all family members are familiar with your emergency plan.
  • Prepare for possible extended power outages.
  • Refill essential prescription medications.
  • Create a plan for pets.
  • Check in on neighbors, particularly those with special needs.


For the latest storm track and updates, click here.

Stay updated on real-time weather developments by texting “Alachua” to 888-777 and following the Alachua County Facebook page. The Alachua County Ready website is also a valuable resource for storm information.

For more information, contact Alachua County Communications Director Mark Sexton at 352-264-6979 or msexton@alachuacounty.us.    

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