County: Leon
ZIP Codes: 32312, 32309, 32318
Bradfordville, Florida, located in the proximity of the Gulf of Mexico, but sufficiently inland at approximately 20 miles from the coast, has a considerable risk of being affected by hurricanes and tropical storms. Being inland might provide some defense against the immediate storm surge associated with hurricanes, however, it does not disregard the potential threats from high wind speeds, extended periods of severe rainfall, and even tornados that can occur in feeder bands, all of which hurricanes and tropical storms are known for. With an average elevation of about 220 feet above sea level, flooding can still pose a considerable risk, especially during significant rainfall events associated with these severe weather systems. Bradfordville has experienced consistent heavy rainfall during historic hurricane events leading, in some instances, to flash floods in local areas. Within the last 30 years, Bradfordville has been indirectly impacted by several major hurricanes including Hurricane Michael in 2018, which caused widespread damages to the surrounding areas due to wind and rain. Prior to this, Hurricanes Dennis (2005) and Kate (1985) also had significant impacts on Bradfordville and the Leon County area. Examining historical patterns, hurricanes pose a dual threat to Bradfordville, both in relation to wind damage and the high potential for heavy rainfall-induced flooding. Therefore, although its location affords some degree of protection against storm surge, wind damage and flooding are significant considerations in Bradfordville's hurricane threat assessment.