Gotha, Florida, is situated approximately 80 miles inland from each of the eastern and western coastlines. Its inland location does provide some buffer against direct hurricane landfalls, though the town is not immune to the destructive forces of these storms, particularly from wind damage and torrential rainfall, which can result in significant flooding. Gotha's elevation is relatively low, with an average height of about 102 feet above sea level, which could potentially enhance its flood risk during extreme rain events that often accompany hurricanes. Factors like the rate of rainfall, prior soil saturation, and the town's local stormwater management capacity also contribute to the risk of serious flooding. In the last 30 years, central Florida and towns like Gotha have endured some severe storms. One of the most notable was Hurricane Charley in 2004, a Category 4 storm which unleashed high wind speeds and heavy rainfall throughout the region. Additionally, 2017's Hurricane Irma, despite weakening to a Category 2 by the time it reached Gotha, resulted in extensive damage from both wind and substantial flooding across a broad area. Thus, while its inland location offers Gotha some degree of protection, hurricanes, tropical storms, and even their remnants can still pose a substantial threat. This necessitates preparedness for potential wind damage, power outages, flooding, and other storm-related hazards.