Situated in North Florida's Holmes County, Esto is located nearly 30 miles from the Gulf Coast. This inland location does offer some protection from the most severe initial impacts of a hurricane such as storm surge. Despite this, the town is still susceptible to the damaging effects of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and tornadoes that can accompany a hurricane, even when its path doesn't directly cross Esto. The town's relatively low elevation - roughly 95 feet above sea level - also puts it at risk of flooding during particularly heavy rain events or hurricanes. Over the last 30 years, Esto has been in the path of several notable hurricanes including Hurricane Opal in 1995 and Hurricane Ivan in 2004. Hurricane Michael in 2018, although its eye passed to the west of Esto, also brought considerable wind and rain to the area. Flooding is a risk during these major storm events, especially with tropical systems that move slowly or stall over the region, leading to prolonged periods of rainfall. The most notable flood in Esto occurred in 1994 during the Tropical Storm Alberto, where the nearby Choctawhatchee River rose to the flood level and beyond, which led to serious flooding in Holmes County. Therefore, it’s essential for residents to consider these historical precedents and maintain preparedness for potential hurricanes and flooding events while also adhering to evacuation orders and other safety directives provided by local officials.