Like a Pro (Without the Panic)
Hurricane Season officially kicks off this Sunday, June 1st—and while folks on the coasts are already clearing the bread aisles and panic-Googling “how to board windows,” here in Alachua County, we can take a deep breath.
Why? Because we're tucked inland and nicely insulated from the dramatic oceanfront impacts that places like Miami, Tampa, or the Panhandle tend to see. Alachua County isn’t exactly a hurricane hotspot. That doesn’t mean we totally escape the effects—just that we don’t need to go full “storm bunker mode” like our coastal cousins.
Still, smart preparation is key. Whether you’re a lifelong local who’s weathered a few seasons or a newly relocated Floridian who’s ready to pack the car at the first raindrop (we see you 
), here’s your guide to staying calm, safe, and storm-savvy in Alachua County.
A Note for Homebuyers: Don’t Let a Storm Delay Your Closing!
If you're buying a home during hurricane season, this part’s for you:
Once you're under contract, don’t wait to line up your insurance. In Florida, insurance companies stop binding new policies when a named storm enters the "binding box"—an area that includes most of the southeastern U.S. coastline. That means:
If a storm is named and projected anywhere near Florida, insurance companies can temporarily pause issuing new policies—even if your home isn’t in the path. No insurance = no closing. Lenders won’t let you close without coverage.
Pro tip: Call your insurance agent as soon as you’re under contract and get that binder secured early. You’ll avoid last-minute scrambles and keep your closing on track—rain or shine.
What You Actually Need to Have on Hand
No need to panic-buy 42 cases of water and a pallet of Vienna sausages. But DO stock up on these essentials:
In Your Home:
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Water – 1 gallon per person per day (aim for 3–5 days)
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Non-perishable food – Canned goods, granola bars, peanut butter
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Battery-powered radio – (Old school? Yes. Reliable? Also yes.)
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Flashlights + batteries – Check expiration dates!
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First aid kit – Include any medications you need
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Toilet paper + hygiene items – You’ll thank yourself later
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Important documents – Keep copies of your home and car insurance, ID, and medical info in a waterproof bag
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Manual can opener – If you’ve ever tried opening a can of beans during a power outage with a butter knife… you already know
In Your Car:
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Insurance & registration – Keep paper copies in the glovebox
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Blanket + first aid kit
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Car charger for your phone
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Basic toolkit & jumper cables
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Gas – Don’t let it drop below half a tank during hurricane season
But What About the Yard?
Even regular Florida thunderstorms can bring falling limbs or surprise flooding, so it’s good to treat your yard like it could star in a weather segment.
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Trim tree limbs hanging over your roof, car, or power lines
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Secure loose items like patio furniture, garden tools, grills, and potted plants
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Clean out gutters and downspouts to help prevent roof and yard flooding
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Clear storm drains near your home if they get blocked with leaves or debris
Fun fact: You don’t want your inflatable flamingo to become your neighbor’s new lawn décor.
Where to Park if You Live in a Flood-Prone Area
If you’re in a low spot or your driveway has a history of turning into Lake Alachua, consider moving your vehicle to higher ground during heavy rain or storm threats.
In Gainesville, safe elevated parking options include:
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Parking garages at UF (available to the public during emergencies)
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The Oaks Mall parking lot (generally well-drained and elevated)
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Public schools with elevated lots, which may also serve as emergency shelters
“A Hurricane Has Formed” — Now What?
When the weather folks start naming storms, don’t freak out. But do:
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Check the projected path – If it’s heading toward Florida, keep an eye on it daily
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Top off your supplies – If you’re missing batteries, now’s the time
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Fill your gas tank
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Secure outdoor items and finish any yard prep
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Take photos of your home and belongings for insurance purposes (bonus points if your dog is in them)
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Stay informed – Follow Alachua County Emergency Management and FloridaDisaster.org for updates
Need Sandbags or a Shelter?
We’ve got you covered:
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Sandbags: Usually available for pickup at the Alachua County Public Works Department (5620 NW 120th Lane, Gainesville). Watch the county’s emergency updates for announcements.
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Shelters: When needed, local shelters open at area schools. These are announced on Alachua County’s Emergency Management page.
Heads up: UF and Santa Fe College may also offer shelters for students and staff.
Reminder: Calm is Contagious
Look—we’re not saying don’t take hurricanes seriously. But in Alachua County, most years, we’re more likely to get strong wind, rain, and the occasional tree branch on a roof than a direct hit from a monster storm.
So instead of panicking, plan smart and stay aware. And if your out-of-state friends start texting you like you’re already floating down University Ave in a kayak, feel free to remind them that Gainesville is more Gator than gator-sized storm surge. 
Stay safe, stay prepared, and stay dry, Alachua County!
And if you’re buying a home this summer—congrats! Just don’t forget to call your insurance agent before the next storm gets a name. 