Florida Counties Ready for Storm: Free Sand for Residents in Need!

13001 Sorrento Road, Pensacola, Florida, USA - As we move through the summer of 2025, Floridians are bracing themselves for a possible tropical disturbance making its way westward across the Gulf. This system, tracked by the National Hurricane Center, is anticipated to bring heavy rains and potentially flash flooding, particularly to areas of the Florida Panhandle.

In response to the impending severe weather, Escambia County is stepping up its efforts to protect residents in flood-prone areas. According to Fox10, sand is available for free at multiple locations throughout the county for residents who are looking to prepare for possible flooding. The sand is on a first-come, first-served basis, and residents will need to bring their own sandbags and shovels.

Sand Distribution Details

Escambia County is making the sand available at several locations, aiming to assist those living in low-lying areas. Specifically, residents can pick up sand at:

• Baars Field Athletic Park, 13001 Sorrento Road, Pensacola
• Brent Athletic Park, 4711 N. W St., Pensacola
• Don Sutton Park, 2320 Crabtree Church Road, Molino
• Equestrian Center, 7750 Mobile Highway, Pensacola
• Escambia County Road Department, 601 Highway 297-A, Pensacola
• Ferry Pass Middle School, 8355 Yancey Lane, Pensacola (northwest corner of school property on Parazine Street)
• John R. Jones Jr. Athletic Park, 555 E. Nine Mile Road, Pensacola
• Travis M. Nelson Park, 4541 County Road 4, Pensacola

Other counties are responding similarly. As detailed by WEAR TV, Santa Rosa County is also offering sand to residents, with distribution points including Tiger Point Park in Gulf Breeze and corners of Leisure Street and Citrus Drive in Navarre. Just like in Escambia, Santa Rosa residents must bring their own sandbags and shovels.

Weather Forecast

The National Hurricane Center’s latest updates indicate that the broad area of low pressure, dubbed AL93, is currently moving westward. It’s situated between Tallahassee and Panama City, and while its shower and thunderstorm activity is mostly disorganized at the moment, conditions could favor additional development as the system tracks across the Gulf (NHC).

This disturbance is forecasted to approach the coast of Louisiana by Thursday, with a medium chance of becoming a tropical depression in the next couple of days. Rainfall in Florida may lead to localized flash flooding, especially with 40 percent formation chances being indicated over the next week.

As we prepare for the weather to turn, keep an eye on local resources for updates and stay safe. There’s something to be said for being proactive when it comes to Mother Nature!