Tampa, Florida, is particularly vulnerable to hurricanes due to its coastal location on the central west coast of the peninsula. The proximity to the Gulf of Mexico increases the likelihood of hurricanes substantially, and Tampa has been, historically, impacted by both minor and major hurricanes. A notable example is Category 5 Hurricane Irma that caused significant devastation in 2017. Tampa's low average elevation amplifies this risk, as the city is prone to storm surge, a leading cause of hurricane-related fatalities. Additionally, several of Tampa's neighborhoods have high flood risks, which become particularly problematic during hurricane season due to heavy rains and rising sea levels. In the last thirty years, aside from Hurricane Irma, Tampa has also been notably affected by Hurricane Charley in 2004 and Hurricane Frances the same year. The city has a history of severe floods caused by tropical storms and heavy rains. In 1998, a unique meteorological event called the El Niño-Southern Oscillation brought significant rainfall to the area, leading to massive flooding. In 2015, heavy rainfalls resulted in one of the worst non-hurricane related floods in recent memory for the area. In conclusion, future hurricane threats to Tampa should be taken seriously due to the city's geographical location, elevation, and history of extreme weather events. Measures for preparation and risk reduction should be strategized according to these inherent factors.