County: Brevard
ZIP Codes: 32935, 32940
Palm Shores, located in Central Florida near the eastern coastline, is at high risk for hurricanes and related impacts. Given its coastal proximity, the town is particularly vulnerable to storm surges and extreme winds associated with hurricanes. Storm surge flooding is a significant threat as the area has a generally low topographical elevation. Furthermore, the typically high amounts of precipitation during storm events may overwhelm local drainage capacities, leading to freshwater flooding. Historical data shows that several significant hurricanes have impacted Palm Shores over the past 30 years. Notably, Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne in 2004 both made landfall in nearby Port St. Lucie, causing substantial flooding and wind damage in and around Palm Shores. More recently, Hurricane Dorian in 2019, although it did not make landfall, came perilously close, subjecting the area to heavy rainfall, high winds, and considerable storm surge. Higher intensity hurricanes have unfortunately become more common due to climate change, a trend which only underscores the need for continuous preparedness efforts in Palm Shores.