County: Pinellas
ZIP Codes: 33786
Belleair Shore, Florida, faces a significant hurricane threat due to its location; it is a coastal town situated directly along the western coastline of Florida. The town's proximity to the coast increases the likelihood of impacts from storm surges during hurricanes. As per the available data, the town's elevation is quite low, which exacerbates the risk of flooding during severe weather events. Historically, Belleair Shore and surrounding areas have faced inundation issues, particularly during intense rainfall associated with hurricanes. Over the past 30 years, several major hurricanes and tropical storms have impacted Belleair Shore, which has further exacerbated flooding risks. For instance, Hurricane Irma in 2017 brought significant storm surge and heavy rainfall to the area, resulting in flooding and property damage. Additionally, the Slow-moving Hurricane Frances in 2004 caused extensive flooding in the region, disrupting normal life and infrastructure for several days. Hence, it is critical for Belleair Shore to establish a robust hurricane preparedness plan that includes adequate measures for flood mitigation and emergency response.