Low Risk Florida  ·  Hurricane / Flooding

Alachua County FL

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

4/ 10
Threat Score
Population
278,468
Area
874
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Hurricane / Flooding
FEMA Disasters
25
federally declared

Alachua County in North Central Florida has relatively low disaster risk due to its inland location and higher elevation. Gainesville and the University of Florida campus dominate the county. Irma caused tree damage and power outages in 2017, but the county avoided the catastrophic flooding and wind damage seen in coastal areas. Tornado activity during severe weather season is the primary ongoing concern.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 4 / 10    Low Risk
Primary Hazard Hurricane / Flooding
Secondary Hazard Tornado
FEMA Flood Zone Zone X (Low Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 25
Last Major Event Hurricane Irma (2017)
Event Frequency Major event every 7–10 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (352) 264-6500
Emergency Shelters 14 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-75 North, I-75 South, US-441 North, SR-26 East

// County Profile

County Alachua County FL
State Florida (FL)
Population 278,468
Area 874 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone X (Low Risk)

// Major Cities

Gainesville FL

// Cities in This County

// Other Florida Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

🏟
Ben Hill Griffin Stadium Gainesville FL
Stadium / Arena  ·  Gainesville, FL  ·  Florida Gators / NCAA  ·  2-mi risk zone
7/10 High
University of Florida Gainesville FL
Chemical Facility  ·  Gainesville, FL  ·  University of Florida  ·  5-mi risk zone
6/10 Moderate

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.