CLAY COUNTY—As Hurricane Helene approaches, Uber offers free rides to the five shelters in Clay County to ensure everyone can get to safer ground.

Residents can get a $35 credit to any one of five shelters in  Clay County - Orange Park High (pet-friendly), Keystone Heights Elementary (pet-friendly), Clay High and Wilkinson Elementary. Those who need medical assistance can go to Lake Asbury Elementary. 

To set up a ride, open the Uber App, tap Account on the bottom right and tap Wallet. Ad promo code HELENERELIEF.

Gov. Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency in 61 of the state's 67 counties, including Clay.  Tropical force winds currently are expected in the county.

The Clay County District Schools decided Tuesday to cancel classes for Thursday and Friday before Helene.

While the storm's exact path has yet to be determined, the massive disturbance is moving quickly. Between Thursday and Friday, it is expected to make a powerful impact as at least a Category 3 hurricane on the Florida Panhandle. Winds and rain could extend at least 200 miles east of the eye of the storm.

Shelters were opened on Wednesday at 6 p.m.

The county providd an opportunity to fill sandbags at the Clay County Fairgrounds, starting Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Empty sandbags will be provided, but the number of bags a person is limited to 10.

The storm is expected to be more of a wind event than rain, so make sure loose items are brought in or secured. To report damage, call (877) 252-9362. Information will be posted on alert.claycountygov.com. 

Also, Saturday’s annual Touch a Truck: What Moves Clay County has been postponed.

The event, which includes vehicles and heavy equipment used by law enforcement, fire rescue and industrial companies, will be rescheduled. Visit Clay Today’s website or the county’s social media pages for further information.

The Community Block Grant Home Rehabilitation application assistance at the Middleburg-Clay Hill Library on Thursday has also been postponed.