County: Hardee
ZIP Codes: 33890
Gardner, Florida, relatively removed from the immediate coastline, has unique considerations when evaluating hurricane threat scenarios. Its inland location helps to mitigate the risk of storm surge, which routinely causes substantial damage in coastal communities. However, the distance does not make it immune to hurricane threats altogether. Intense rain bands associated with hurricanes could result in high levels of precipitation, leading to flash flooding in low-lying areas or places with inadequate drainage. Additionally, strong winds could pose a hazard to infrastructure, particularly older or less sturdy structures. Gardner's relatively lower elevation may potentially exacerbate flood risks, particularly in the event of a slow-moving or stalling storm system. Regarding historical weather events, Florida is no stranger to hurricanes, with frequents storms pummeling various parts of the state. However, Gardner's particular hurricane history appears to be relatively mild over the last 30 years, with a few exceptions. Hurricane Charley in 2004 was one of the most destructive hurricanes to impact Florida in recent history, and it did bring considerable rainfall and wind to the Gardner area, though the town's distance from the initial point of impact did spare it from the worst of the damage. The 1995 flood event caused by Hurricane Erin also made a notable impact on the town, showcasing its vulnerability to heavy rains often associated with these storm systems.