Hurricane Helene update #5

Published on September 26, 2024

A tornado watch has been issue for our area as Hurricane Helene continues its approach toward Florida. Remember, this massive storm will bring strong damaging winds and gusts to our area.

Now is the time to identify a safe room in your home or building, such as an interior room on the lowest floor with no windows, where you and loved ones can shelter if conditions worsen.

Power outages are possible. If you plan to use a portable generator, do so safely. Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless and tasteless poison gas that can be deadly. It is a component of the exhaust from the generator engine. The symptoms of exposure include headache, nausea, vomiting, dizziness and blurred vision. To prevent CO poisoning, make sure generators are placed in well-ventilated areas – not in the garage – and at least 20 feet from the house.

Facilities

• City offices, facilities, parks, pools and recreation centers will remain closed through tomorrow, Sept. 27, and are expected to reopen Monday.

Refuse Collection

• Today’s residential trash and recycling pickup is again delayed, with expected pickup scheduled Saturday, Sept. 28. Please do not place containers, branches or other items curbside today or tomorrow.

Parking

• Parking restrictions remain lifted through tomorrow for all parking zones.
• Free parking at the SW Parking Garage, 105 SW 3rd Street, continues through tomorrow (based on availability) for neighbors who need to store their vehicles.

Regional Transit System (RTS)

• Bus service is operating on reduced service and has suspended fares for passengers.

311 Emergency Information Line

• Alachua County has activated the 311 Emergency Information line for rumor control and questions. Neighbors can also dial 352-264-6557.

Emergency shelters open

• Alachua County has opened two pet-friendly general population shelters: The MLK Jr. Multipurpose Center, 1028 NE 14th St.; and the Easton-Newberry Sports Complex, 24880 NW 16th Avenue in Newberry.
• Alachua County has opened a special needs shelter: Senior Recreation Center, 5701 NW 34th Blvd. Registration in advance is not required. For more information, please call 352-955-2575.
• For transportation to the special needs shelter, please call 352-955-2575.
• Details including which items to bring to a shelter can be found online.

Additional resources

• To receive City of Gainesville alerts, sign up at www.alertgnv.org.
• Visit GRU.com/StormCentral for a list of important phone numbers in the event of service emergencies, as well as a link to the Gainesville Regional Utilities outage map with estimated time of restoration.
• Visit www.safeGNV.org for all emergency management updates and additional preparedness tips.