County: Lake
ZIP Codes: 32767
Paisley, Florida, being around 51 miles from the Atlantic coast, poses a moderate-to-high risk from hurricane impacts in terms of wind damage and precipitation-induced flooding. Being relatively inland, the town is generally safer from storm surges, a significant threat posed by coastal hurricanes. However, the town's elevation, with a mean height of 33 feet above sea level, can make it vulnerable to flooding from torrential rainfall typical of these storms. This vulnerability is heightened by the town's proximity to local water bodies, particularly Lake Akron and Lake Perch. Residents in Paisley need to remain vigilant and keep informed about updates from local officials whenever there is a hurricane warning or watch in the area. Reviewing the weather history in the last 30 years, several hurricanes and tropical storms have passed near or over Paisley, causing various degrees of damage. Most notably, Hurricane Charley in 2004 and Hurricane Irma in 2017, both Category 4 at their peak intensities, passed near Paisley, causing significant damage due to strong winds, heavy rainfall, and consequent flooding. Tropical storm Fay in 2008 also caused substantial flood damage. The risks posed by hurricanes to Paisley, therefore, cannot be underestimated. Preparatory measures such as securing properties against high winds and having a flood plan in place are necessary to mitigate these threats.