County: St. Lucie
ZIP Codes: 34946
St. Lucie Village, sitting along the Indian River Lagoon and located near the Eastern Atlantic coast, is prone to a heavy hurricane threat. Its proximity to coastal waters coupled with its minimal elevation, merely, approximately, 21 feet above sea level, presents a catastrophic risk for storm surge flooding. Over the years, this has been the village's most significant hurricane-related threat. The region generally experiences swell in rainfall during hurricane and storms which can potentially cause riverine flooding by the Indian River Lagoon and other local waterways. Taking into account past weather records, St. Lucie Village has a history of prolonged power outages due to high winds and tree fall during hurricanes, which can add to the disaster scenario. In reflecting on the past 30 years, the major hurricanes that have impacted St. Lucie Village include Hurricane Jeanne and Frances in 2004 and Hurricane Wilma in 2005. Frances resulted in severe damage due to wind and flooding induced by intense rainfall. Jeanne, striking closely in the heels of Frances, worsened the situation with storm-surge flooding. Hurricane Wilma also caused significant damage in the form of high wind-induced structural damage. In 2017, the region was brushed by Hurricane Irma which resulted in power outages and minor to moderate flooding. Given this history and the area's characteristics, it's crucial for locals to have evacuation plans prepared, follow local emergency management advice, and have a well-stocked emergency kit at all times.