County: Hillsborough
ZIP Codes: 33598, 33573
Sun City Center, Florida, located relatively close to the west coast of the state, has a considerable risk from hurricane threats mainly due to storm surge, high winds, and flooding. The coastal proximity opens up the risk of storm surge where significant sea level rise due to a storm can lead to extensive flooding. Its relatively low elevation (averaging 20 feet) indicates that flooding from both rainfall and storm surges could potentially be significant depending on the storm's strength and path. This can lead to evacuation orders and damage to infrastructure, such as roads and buildings. Looking back at the last 30 years, in 2004, Hurricane Charley caused significant damage to parts of Florida, however, Sun City Center lucked out of the direct path of this storm. However, Hurricane Irma in 2017, a larger storm by size, had a greater impact on this area with heavy rains leading to flooding. Also, Tropical Storm Eta in 2020 caused considerable flooding in the community. It is important for residents to be prepared every hurricane season by having a plan in place, preparing their property accordingly, and heeding all warnings and communication from local officials and weather services.