Istachatta, located in Hernando County, Florida, is approximately 30 miles inland from the Gulf coast. This significant distance from the coastline provides a slight buffer and reduced risk of direct impact from land-falling hurricanes. However, it is still susceptible to hurricane impacts, particularly heavy rainfall leading to flooding and the threat of high winds causing structural damage. The town's relatively low elevation, Florida's general flat landscape, and its proximity to the Withlacoochee River could potentially enhance its flood risk during substantial rain events associated with tropical systems passing over or near the area. Historically, Hurricane Elena in 1985 and Hurricane Hermine in 2016 caused significant rainfall and flooding in areas around Istachatta, attesting to the town's vulnerability to these weather elements in a hurricane. Just recently, Hurricane Irma in 2017 brought storm surge, heavy rains, and powerful winds to the broader region, causing substantial damage. While it's important to consider hurricane and flooding history over the past 30 years, it must also be noted that future tropical systems can be unpredictable, emphasizing the need for residents to remain vigilant and prepared whenever there is a hurricane threat.