Staying ahead of the storm: GNV readies for busy hurricane season
Staying ahead of the storm: GNV readies for busy hurricane season
Staying Ahead of the Storm: GNV Prepares for a Busy Hurricane Season
As hurricane season begins, Florida residents have a prime opportunity to prepare with a two-week sales tax holiday starting on June 1. This period allows residents to purchase essential emergency supplies tax-free, including portable radios, manual can-openers, tarps, and pet-related goods. The timing couldn’t be better, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration predicting a highly active Atlantic hurricane season, potentially featuring up to seven major hurricanes from June 1 to November 30.
Emergency managers emphasize the importance of preparation. While most Floridians know to keep flashlights and batteries handy, it’s equally crucial to include current copies of insurance policies, veterinary records, and prescription information in emergency kits.
“Make sure you have an emergency plan for your family and keep a printed copy at hand,
along with your emergency kit,” advised Gainesville Fire Rescue Deputy Chief Shawn Hillhouse. “I encourage all area residents to visit SafeGNV.org for helpful hurricane-planning resources and to sign up for alertGNV to get emergency updates by phone or text.”
The alertGNV notification system provides critical information during severe storms and other emergencies, such as tornado watches or wind advisories.
In late August last year,
Hurricane Idalia’s winds toppled two dozen trees in Gainesville. Public Works crews swiftly cleared the debris, ensuring safe passage for first responders and the public in the storm’s aftermath.
“We prioritize clearing roadways,
focusing first on main thoroughfares and routes to hospitals,” said Public Works Director Brian Singleton. “Fortunately, last year’s storms didn’t require us to set such priorities.”
Public Works crews are among many municipal employees who restore essential services during the recovery phase following a storm or other widespread local emergency. They often work alongside first responders, relying on efficient communication to coordinate their efforts.
Since 2019,
Gainesville’s public safety personnel have utilized FirstNet, the nationwide broadband network prioritizing emergency communications. “Gainesville was the first city in Florida to adopt FirstNet,” noted Phil Mann, Gainesville special advisor to the city manager for infrastructure and capital projects. “We equipped all our public safety personnel with FirstNet-enabled phones within a week.”
Residents can also receive emergency notifications via alertGNV for flood advisories or warnings resulting from moderate to heavy rainfall.
After the rains pass,
the City’s flood investigation teams measure peak flood levels along creeks and other monitored sites in Gainesville. They record high water marks to understand flood patterns and predict local flood risks, data essential for securing state and federal funding for future infrastructure projects.
conclusion
Neighbors can assist by submitting photos of neighborhood flooding through the City’s Flood Reporter app. “Be safe and avoid floodwaters,” cautioned Andy Renshaw, the City’s floodplain administrator. “Never drive, swim, or walk through them. Floodwaters may contain raw sewage, debris, or other pollutants, so take photos from dry land.”
