County: Clay
ZIP Codes: 32003, 32006
Fleming Island, Florida, is situated along the eastern coast of Florida and is part of the Jacksonville Metropolitan area. Although the island is not directly at the coastline, it is adjacent to the St. Johns River and Doctors Lake, which makes it susceptible to storm surges and flooding during a hurricane event. The land largely sits at or near sea level, which can intensify the risk of flooding, especially in low-lying areas, during a hurricane. Flooding risks can be further exacerbated by heavy rainfall associated with these tropical systems, especially if they are slow-moving or particularly severe. In the last three decades, Fleming Island has been impacted by several major hurricanes and tropical storms, including Hurricane Matthew in 2016 and Hurricane Irma in 2017. Both storms caused substantial damage to properties due to storm surge and heavy rainfall. Hurricane Matthew, while staying offshore, caused significant surge and wind damage along the Florida coast. Irma, on the other hand, made landfall in Florida and caused flooding and wind damage. Other major systems over the years include Tropical Storm Faye in 2008 and Hurricanes Jeanne and Frances in 2004. It is important to note that any hurricane or powerful storm, irrespective of its landfall location, can pose significant risks due to the potential for heavy rainfall, storm surge, damaging winds, and even tornadoes. Therefore, preventative measures and disaster preparedness are critical for residents of Fleming Island, Florida.