Tallahassee, Florida, while inland, is not exempt from the threats imposed by hurricanes. Its proximity to the Gulf Coast (approximately 30 miles inland) makes it susceptible to hurricanes sweeping up from the Gulf of Mexico. Even though hurricane strength usually decreases upon landfall, Tallahassee's relatively close distance to the coast means it can still experience significant effects, such as high winds, tornadoes, and widespread rainfall, which can trigger flash flooding. In terms of elevation, most of Tallahassee is above sea level, yet the city is not completely safe from flood risk due to the numerous water bodies in and around the area, including Lake Talquin and Lake Jackson. These water bodies can overflow from heavy rains caused by hurricane events, posing a risk to surrounding neighborhoods. Historically, major hurricanes such as Kate in 1985 and Hermine in 2016 have caused substantial damage to Tallahassee, with Hermine being the first hurricane to directly hit the area since Kate. These hurricanes caused significant power outages, tree damage, and flash flooding. Additionally, in 2008, Tallahassee suffered considerable flooding caused by Tropical Storm Fay. Since Tallahassee is heavily forested, the potential for wind-blown debris is higher than in less wooded areas, which can cause additional damage in the event of hurricanes. Therefore, preparedness for power outages, flash floods, and wind damage should be top concerns for Tallahassee residents during hurricane season.