County: Calhoun
ZIP Codes: 32421
Altha, Florida, although located approximately 57 miles from the Gulf Coast, is not exempt from the perils of a hurricane. Hurricanes often shift paths and can bring substantial wind damage, power outages and flooding to inland communities as well. Altha's relatively low elevation (121 feet) augments its vulnerability to flood risks, especially because the area is characterized by a significant number of rivers and creeks, which contribute to the flooding risks. Local infrastructure damage including downed power lines, blocked roads due to fallen trees and damage to homes could also occur. This impact becomes far-reaching when you consider the regional agricultural activities that may be hit hard, as hurricanes often wreak havoc on farmlands due to high winds and flooding, causing significant economic losses for the community. Historically, Altha has been affected by several hurricanes and storms. Hurricane Michael in 2018 is one of the most significant in recent history; it devastated the panhandle, inclusive of Calhoun County which Altha is part of. This category 5 hurricane caused widespread destruction and was responsible for power outages, infrastructure damage, and flooding. The community continues to recover from the impact of the storm, which informs the necessity for prior planning and adaptation to such events, well before they occur. So despite its inland location, Altha residents must prepare for possible hurricane threats.