County: Lake
ZIP Codes: 32102
Astor, Florida, due to its proximity to the St. Johns River and its inland location, faces a significant hurricane threat largely from heavy rainfall that could lead to flooding. The surge impact from a hurricane may not be as significant due to its inland location, but this does not negate the perils of heavy rainfall. It's worth noting that the town's low-lying nature - the elevation being roughly 20 feet above sea level - could accentuate the potential for flooding, particularly in the context of a major storm system that dumps a significant amount of rain upstream of the St. Johns River. The broader area of Astor could be susceptible to wind damage as hurricanes can maintain their strength as they move inland. Lastly, the disruption of basic services like power and transportation could be an enduring impact even after the storm dissipates.
In terms of historical impacts, Hurricane Irma in 2017 caused significant flooding in Astor, rendering many homes uninhabitable. The water levels in the St. Johns River rose to historic levels, evidencing the susceptibility of this area to flooding especially considering rapid upstream rainfall. In 2004, Hurricanes Charley, Frances, and Jeanne all impacted Astor and although the main brunt of the storms were felt elsewhere, they highlighted Astor's vulnerability. The town also experienced flooding and damage from Hurricane Donna in 1960. Therefore, it is crucial for the residents of Astor to prepare and plan for potential hurricanes with high volume rainfall, especially during the peak hurricane season which typically spans from June to November.