Tropical Storm Helene Update #4 – 311 activated, Animal Resources closing, and more sandbag locations

September 24, 2024

Press release from Alachua County

ALACHUA COUNTY, Fla. – 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 an actual emergency, call 911.

Animal Resources will be closed tomorrow, September 25, to prepare for the possible need for a pet-friendly shelter.

Sandbag locations

In preparation for Tropical Storm Helene, Alachua County staff will distribute sandbags (10 bags per vehicle).

Alachua County’s Wayside Park (11855 NW U.S. 441) distribution will continue on Tuesday, Sept. 24, until 5 p.m. and will re-open Wednesday at 9 a.m., weather permitting, until 3 p.m.

After staffed hours, sand, bags, and shovels will be available for self-service.

Directions to Wayside Park

Northbound on U.S. 441 (from Gainesville): Turn right onto County Road 237 (at Dollar General), then right onto Northwest 126th Avenue, and right again onto Northwest 59th Terrace to access Wayside Park (located at the Mobil convenience store).
Southbound on U.S. 441 (from Alachua): Turn left onto County Road 237 (at Dollar General), then right onto Northwest 126th Avenue, and right again onto Northwest 59th Terrace to access Wayside Park (located at the Mobil convenience store).

The City of Hawthorne has sand and bags available at the City of Hawthorne Wastewater Treatment Plant, 23016 SE 65th Lane. Be prepared to fill your own bags.

The City of Newberry has sand and bags available at the public works compound (120 NW 260th Street). Bring your own shovel.

The City of High Springs has sand and bags available at Memorial Park (17380 NW U.S. Hwy 441). Please bring your own shovel, limit 10 bags per person. There will be limited assistance available until 5 p.m. on Tuesday and between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Wednesday.

Preparing for the storm

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.

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.

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.