County: Pinellas
ZIP Codes: 34698, 34697
Dunedin, Florida, located in Pinellas County, is a coastal town on the Gulf Coast and is naturally prone to the effects of hurricanes. Its almost at sea-level elevation and close proximity to the coast makes it particularly vulnerable to storm surges, flooding, high wind speeds and rainfall associated with hurricanes. Historical flood data indicates that Dunedin is in a high-risk flood zone. Its geographical location exposes it to occasional hits as well as near misses from tropical cyclones originating from the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic. The town has had to face multiple evacuation orders due to these imminent threats in the past. In recent history, particularly within the last 30 years, Hurricane Elena (1985), Hurricane Frances (2004), Hurricane Charley (2004), and Hurricane Irma (2017) have significantly impacted Dunedin. Hurricane Charley, for example, inflicted considerable damage even though it made landfall south of the town. Specific concerns for Dunedin include not only direct hurricane-related damage such as high winds and storm surges but also post-storm issues, such as widespread power outages and disruptions to essential services. Regular monitoring of hurricane threats and advance preparation are crucial for communities in this town.