County: Miami-Dade
ZIP Codes: 33039, 33033
Homestead Base, Florida, located approximately 7 miles inland, is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes and flooding. The region's low-lying topography, with elevations typically less than 10 feet above sea level, increases the likelihood and potential severity of storm surge events. Its proximity to the coast and to the Everglades also enhance Homestead Base's vulnerability to these weather-related incidents. Given that cyclonic systems and hurricane-spawned tornadoes frequently track from the sea before moving inland, these patterns can place Homestead Base directly or indirectly in harm's way. Additionally, the region's heavy rainfall during hurricanes has historically led to significant flooding due to the area's poor natural drainage. Over the last 30 years, Homestead Base has faced the devastating impacts of several major hurricanes and flooding incidents. The most notable event was Hurricane Andrew in 1992 which, as a Category 5 hurricane, caused catastrophic damage to the community. Homestead Base was near the storm's epicenter, and the consequences were severe with extensive structural damage and widespread flooding. More recently, Hurricane Irma in 2017 also made an impact. Although the storm had weakened to Category 3 by the time it reached Homestead, it still brought significant rainfall, causing flooding and wind damage. As a result of these events, Hurricane preparedness, including regular updates to evacuation and emergency response plans, has become a crucial aspect of life in Homestead Base.