County: Hardee
ZIP Codes: 33890, 33873
Lemon Grove, Florida is protected from immediate impacts of hurricanes due to its significant distance from the coast. However, its proximity to inland water bodies increases its susceptibility to flooding brought on by torrential rainfall commonly associated with these storms. Despite its relative elevation, the town is not immune to the risks of flash flooding, especially during major hurricanes which can translate and sustain their destructive potential far inland. Furthermore, high-speed winds, a common feature of hurricanes, can still generate considerable damage to infrastructure, vegetation, and power systems within the town. In historical context, Lemon Grove has been fairly fortunate with limited major hurricane direct hits and consequential flooding in the last 30 years. However, it's noteworthy to mention that Hurricane Andrew in 1992, one of the most devastating hurricanes in the period, did bring heavy rain, wind, and minor flooding to the area. It's also wise to consider Hurricane Irma in 2017, despite its course along the western peninsula, still caused substantial power outages and wind damage in towns far inland like Lemon Grove. These incidents serve as a reminder that while coastal towns bear the brunt of a hurricane’s impact, locations further inland are not completely insulated from these severe weather events.