County: Santa Rosa
ZIP Codes: 32565
Fidelis, Florida is located relatively inland, approximately 20 miles from the Gulf Coast, but that doesn't completely shelter it from the potential impacts of a hurricane. The town typically experiences heavy rainfall which can lead to flash flooding, particularly during tropical storm periods, especially in its low-lying areas. It has experienced significant power outages, fallen trees and other forms of wind damage with past storms. Fidelis' elevation, which is fairly low at approximately 60 feet above sea level, can contribute to flooding concerns when coupled with the heavy rainfall. Historically, Fidelis has endured numerous hurricanes and tropical storms, notably Hurricane Ivan in 2004, which led to considerable damage due to wind and flooding. More recently, in 2018, Hurricane Michael, a category 5 storm, has also had major impact not just on Fidelis but the entire Florida Panhandle area. These past events highlight the potential for significant storm impacts in Fidelis despite its relative distance from the Florida coast. Thus, it is imperative for residents to be prepared for potential storm threats including wind damage, power outages, and particularly flooding, with the onset of hurricane season.