County: Sumter
ZIP Codes: 33514, 33597
Center Hill, Florida, is in the central region of the state, approximately 70 miles inland from the nearest coastal line. This distance from the coast offers a bit of a buffer; as hurricanes move inland, they tend to decrease in strength, often substantially. However, even a markedly weakened hurricane can bring substantial rain, wind, and potential for tornadoes to the Center Hill area. The town is also situated at a modestly low elevation, averaging around 100 feet, with many areas even lower. This means that heavy rainfall associated with the passage of a tropical system has the potential for causing widespread flooding, particularly in lower-lying areas of the town. In terms of historical hurricanes, Center Hill has a long history of weather threats, particularly from tropical systems. Within the past 30 years, the region was significantly impacted by Hurricane Charley in 2004, which was a Category 4 hurricane at its peak. Though it had weakened somewhat by the time it reached the Center Hill area, it still caused substantial wind and rain damage. The town has also seen multiple instances of hurricanes passing nearby, with rainfall causing minor to moderate flooding in the town and surrounding area. Therefore, while the risk of direct hurricane hits is relatively low due to its inland location, hurricanes pose indirect threats in the form of heavy rain and potential flooding, with the risk of wind damage and tornadoes present as well.