County: Wakulla
ZIP Codes: 32346
Panacea, Florida, is situated on the Gulf of Mexico's coastline, roughly midway through the Florida panhandle. With almost its entire area sitting at sea level, this coastal town is particularly vulnerable to wind damage and storm surge flooding during tropical storms and hurricanes. In terms of potential hurricane impacts, not only does it have to contend with high-intensity winds, but being a low-lying coastal area, it is also particularly prone to flooding, storm surges, and substantial erosion issues. Even a relatively moderate storm can cause significant damage due to the region's flat topography and its proximity to several bodies of water, including the Gulf of Mexico, Dickerson Bay, and the Ochlockonee River. Looking at historical data, Panacea has felt the effects of several significant hurricanes over the past 30 years. Hurricane Michael in 2018 caused widespread devastation, while Hurricane Hermine in 2016 led to significant flooding in the region. Hurricane Dennis in 2005 and Hurricane Opal in 1995 were also significant events that led to considerable damage in and around Panacea. Owing to its coastal location, Panacea also suffers the impacts of storms that make landfall elsewhere but whose storm surges and heavy rainfall affect the town. Therefore, in any hurricane threat, the chief considerations would have to be storm surge and flooding potential, wind damage, and the probability of prolonged power outages and access issues due to downed infrastructure.