St. Johns County Public Works to distribute about 14,000 free sandbags for hurricane season

St. Johns County Public Works said it will distribute approximately 14,000 free sand bags at six locations across the county as part of its hurricane-season preparedness efforts.

The program, the county said, has provided pre-filled sand bags to residents for three years and typically begins in early May. “Preparing early is one of the most effective ways residents can improve their safety and readiness during hurricane season,” St. Johns County Public Works said.

County staff described the logistics behind the distribution: sand is pulled from a large stockpile at the Sims Pit location and the county uses a sand-bagging machine acquired around the time the pre-filled program began. Road and Bridge staff handle the operations at distribution events, the agency said.

Officials encouraged residents to retain sand bags after storms for possible future use and offered storage guidance to preserve them. “We encourage residents to hold on to the sand bags and not dispose of them for possible future storms,” the agency said, adding that sand bags should be stored in a dry, shaded area to prevent deterioration.

St. Johns County Public Works said the county remains committed to public safety and preparedness and will continue year-round efforts to strengthen community resilience.