County: Sarasota
ZIP Codes: 34223, 34224
Englewood, located on Florida's Gulf Coast, is highly susceptible to hurricane threats due to its coastal position and relatively low elevation. It resides almost at sea level, which increases its exposure to storm surges, coastal flooding, and wind damage. Given its peninsula location, access to and from Englewood can be easily disrupted during stormy conditions, potentially affecting evacuation and emergency response. Furthermore, the town, like much of Florida, has a high water table that makes it prone to flooding, even from less intense rainfall events; thus, hurricanes and tropical storms can significantly impact the area with large-scale flooding. Looking at historical storm impacts, Hurricane Charley in 2004 was a major event for Englewood with significant storm surge and wind damage. It was a Category 4 storm that devastated many areas in Southwest Florida, including Englewood. Another notable storm, Hurricane Irma in 2017, despite taking a more easterly track, also brought high wind speeds and flooding to the area. The town, therefore, should be ready for similar potential impacts from future storms. Preparedness measures will need to address immediate threats such as high wind speeds and storm surge, but also the likelihood of freshwater flooding due to the combination of heavy rain with the local geography and hydrology.