Welaka, Florida, faces a significant risk from hurricanes and tropical storms owing to its location in North Central Florida, just miles away from the Atlantic coast. While it is somewhat inland from the coast, it is situated on a crucial body of water - the St. Johns River. This places Welaka in a vulnerable position for storm surge and both riverine and flash flooding, especially considering the flat topography and low elevation of the town. As such, any major storm system that passes through the Atlantic has the potential to strongly impact the area with heavy rainfall and powerful winds. Reviewing the last 30 years, the most significant storm in recent memory was Hurricane Irma in 2017. This powerful Category 5 storm resulted in devastating flooding in Welaka, with water levels in the St. Johns River reaching record levels. Other previous impactful storms include Hurricane Floyd (1999), and the 2004 hurricane season, which saw Hurricanes Charley, Frances, and Jeanne all causing significant precipitation and wind damage in North Central Florida. These events underline the need for ongoing vigilance and preparedness for potential hurricane impacts to the town.