Tropical Storm Helene Update #3 – Local State of Emergency

September 24, 2024

Press release from Alachua County

ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. – Alachua County has issued a local State of Emergency in preparation for Tropical Storm Helene, which was upgraded from a potential tropical cyclone. The order was passed at Tuesday’s County Commission meeting.

The County has opened its sandbag location at Wayside Park (11855 NW US 441). Staff will be onsite to load pre-filled sandbags until 5 p.m. Tuesday and will continue Wednesday at 9 a.m., weather permitting, until 3 p.m. After staffed hours, sand, bags, and shovels will be available for self-service.

Preparing for the storm

Alachua County residents are urged not to dismiss this storm, which is projected to become a Category 3 hurricane by Thursday.

The best way to stay up-to-date is to text the word ALACHUA to 888-777, follow the Alachua County Facebook page and visit the Alachua County Ready website.

You should have your hurricane kits and plans in place if you haven’t already done so.

Some of those actions include, but are not limited to:

Clearing items around your home that can be picked up by strong winds.
Securing property in areas that are prone to flooding.
Clearing tree limbs from around windows.
Moving vehicles out from underneath trees.
Ensuring everyone in your family is familiar with your disaster plan.
Having a plan for prolonged power outages.
Refilling prescription medications.
Having a plan for your pets.
Checking up on neighbors and those that you know may have special needs.
Use Alachua.weatherstem.com to view weather stations that are near your home.
Go to weather.gov/jax for the latest storm track and potential impacts.