Sandbags: Here's where to get them in Central Florida

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ORLANDO, Fla. - Tropical Storm Idalia is getting stronger as it moves through the Gulf of Mexico and is forecast to become a hurricane – possibly a category 2 hurricane – by the time it makes landfall in Florida.

Officials have urged people to prepare for the storm no matter if they're in the cone or not as damaging winds, heavy rain, and flooding or all possible. People have been encouraged to check their emergency kits and family plans, secure outdoor patio furniture, trim trees, and clean out gutters.

If you're looking for sandbags, Seminole County has opened a few spots. However, make sure to double check each county's website for location hours and updates.

Altamonte Springs

Eastmonte Park803 Magnolia Dr., Altamonte Springs, FL 32701Open Sunday, August 27 and Monday, August 28, 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Westmonte Recreation Center624 Bills Lane., Altamonte Springs, FL 32714Open Sunday, August 27 and Monday, August 28, 8:00 a.m.–7:00 p.m.

Oviedo

Public Works Facility1655 Evans St, Oviedo, FL 32765Open Monday, August 28 from 7 a.m. - TBD

When going to a sandbag site, make sure to bring a shovel and another person to help fill bags and carry them to the car. Filled bags can weigh up to 30 pounds.

Fill each bag between a third or half way and then tie them.

According to Seminole County, burlap sacks and plastic sandbags (polypropylene) are recommended. Do not use garbage bags or feed sacks.

Feed sacks can be too large to handle and garbage bags are too slippery to stack.

Water bags can be stacked to help divert water away from doors, windows, or buildings, according to Seminole County. If pre

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