County: Wakulla
ZIP Codes: 32358
Sopchoppy, Florida, which sits just about fifteen miles from the coastline is potentially vulnerable to tropical cyclones, storm surges, and the heavy rainstorms that accompany these cyclonic events. The town's slightly elevated terrain compared to coastal areas somewhat lowers the risk of direct flooding from storm surges; however, its relatively low lying topography keeps it exposed to potential freshwater flooding from heavy rainfall events. Historically, the surrounding Wakulla County has seen a number of major flood events, predominantly from hurricanes and tropical storms, suggesting a not insignificant risk of flood damage. Over the past 30 years, a number of significant storm events have impacted Sopchoppy, most notably the category 5 Hurricane Michael in 2018. While the storm's center passed west of the town, it still brought heavy rains, winds, and subsequent flooding. Another notable weather event was Tropical Storm Fay in 2008, which also resulted in widespread rainfall and flooding. The accumulated historical storm data and growing concern over climate change imply that massive cyclones will only become more frequent over time, increasing the long-term risk for Sopchoppy residents. Therefore, continuous vigilance and hurricane preparedness are crucial for the local community.