Tarpon Springs, Florida, is vulnerable to hurricane threats due to its geographical position on the Gulf Coast of Florida. Its elevation is below 30 feet and even at its highest point it's a mere 32 feet above sea level, making the area especially vulnerable to storm surge and flooding. Given the town’s location on the Anclote River, it could experience substantial flooding during a significant rainfall event. Additionally, the lack of any significant land barrier between Tarpon Springs and the Gulf of Mexico means it isn't protected from direct landfall of a hurricane. High winds from hurricanes can cause severe damage to infrastructure and natural ecosystems, as well as power outages and widespread debris.

Over the past three decades, Tarpon Springs has felt the impact of several major hurricanes and floods. Notably, in 2004, Hurricane Frances caused significant flooding. The town was also impacted by Hurricane Irma in 2017, which prompted numerous emergency rescues due to flooding. Hurricane Michael in 2018, while not directly hitting the city, still caused strong winds and storm surge in the area. The threats associated with hurricanes such as winds, flooding, and storm surges should be seriously considered in preparing for future hurricanes, paying close attention to evacuation routes and readiness of emergency services in Tarpon Springs. It's imperative for citizens to stay informed and be prepared for such events, as climatic changes can potentially cause even more intense storms in the future.