Heritage Pines, Florida, is situated roughly 10 miles inland from the west coast of Florida. This positioning allows for some protection from direct hurricane landfall but the close proximity still puts the town at risk for hurricane impacts. The severity of these impacts generally depends on the strength and track of the hurricane. Given the town's relatively low elevation, with an average height above sea level of just 45 feet, Heritage Pines is susceptible to flood risks especially from heavy, sustained rainfall. The area may also experience damaging winds and potential tornadoes spawned by landfalling hurricanes. Historically, Heritage Pines has been affected by several major hurricanes and tropical storms, with the most notable in recent decades being Hurricane Irma in 2017. This powerful Category 4 storm caused significant wind damage and widespread flooding in the area. Prior to Irma, in 2004, Hurricane Frances also brought heavy rainfall and resultant flooding to the town. Although the town is slightly buffered from storm surge given its inland location, the past storms underline the serious threat posed by hurricane impacts, even on the low end of the hurricane category rating. Residents should therefore always remain vigilant and fully prepared during hurricane season.