MARION COUNTY, Fla. — Several storm shelters are open in Marion County to offer people in need a place to ride out the hurricane.

▶ WATCH CHANNEL 9 EYEWITNESS NEWS

Meanwhile, others are getting their homes ready.

Six shelters are open across Marion County right now.

LIVE UPDATES: Hurricane Idalia strengthens into Category 2 storm as it closes in on Florida

The Marion County Sheriff’s Office has completely boarded up their building in preparation for Idalia. A sign posted said they’ll be opening back up Thursday.

It’s a different scene than downtown Ocala, where it looked like business as usual. Businesses, restaurants and shops are still open.

READ: Hurricane Idalia: DCF releasing SNAP benefits early in these Florida counties

As of Tuesday afternoon, only 107 people have taken advantage of the six shelters in the county.

READ: Hurricane Idalia: These Central Florida school districts are closing ahead of the storm

Video: ‘You can never be too careful’: Marion County residents prep for Hurricane Idalia impacts Businesses in Dunnellon in western Marion County are gearing up for the impact of Hurricane Idalia. (Jeff Deal, WFTV.com)

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.

©2023 Cox Media Group