County: Collier
ZIP Codes: 34140
Goodland, Florida, sits right on the southwest coast of Florida, which puts it in a prime location for potential hurricane threats and flooding due to storm surges or extended periods of heavy rainfall. Since the town is at sea level, the residents and infrastructures here are highly susceptible to flooding. Historically, Goodland has been prone to storm surge flooding, particularly during high tides and when hurricanes make landfall to the south and push water into the large coastline curve from Cape Romano to Cape Sable. The wrong combination of tide, storm direction, and intensity can lead to substantial flooding in the community. Over the last 30 years, Goodland has experienced several significant hurricanes and tropical storms. One of the most impactful was Hurricane Irma in 2017, a Category 4 storm that ended up causing considerable property damages and flooding. The storm surge produced during the Irma hurricane event is one of the highest on record for the area. Then there was Hurricane Wilma in 2005 that resulted in severe flooding as well. With the ongoing changes in climate patterns, there is a potential increase in the likelihood of more intense hurricanes impacting Goodland in the future. It's crucial for the town to have a well-prepared evacuation and contingency plan, considering the risk factors and historical events.