Despite Thursday's sunny, warm weather, students may find themselves bracing this weekend for the worst flooding yet. And it could continue through April, according to the National Weather Service. Although Gainesville residents were more fortunate during last weekend's El Nino-driven storms than their drenched neighbors in the rest of Alachua County, another storm expected for late Saturday could leave Gainesville dwellers soggy and suffering, fire rescue and government officials agree. The system will not be as fierce as last weekend's, but weather service meteorologist Pete Mohlin said its effects could be just as damaging because rivers and low-lying areas in Alachua County have had little time to recover. Already, Alachua County Fire Rescue officials are planning evacuation routes and telling utility crews to be prepared for emergency service.
Assistance varies, depending on property damage, financial situations and insurance coverage.
To qualify for aid, people must register with the Federal Emergency Management Agency. All rights reserved.