Altoona, Florida's location in Lake County sets it roughly 50 miles inland from the coast, which provides a certain measure of protection from the immediate effects of hurricanes, such as surge flooding. However, the town is far from immune to the damaging winds and intense rainfall that hurricanes and their remnants can deliver as they track inland. The town's low elevation, in a region known for having wetlands and lakes, increases the risk of freshwater flooding from heavy rains. The town's infrastructure, largely comprised of older structures and vast woodland, could also be susceptible to wind damage and widespread power outages. In terms of historical records within the last 30 years, the 2004 hurricane season was particularly impactful for Altoona and surrounding areas, when it was hit by hurricanes Charley, Frances, and Jeanne in quick succession. Each of these storms resulted not only in wind damage but also extensive flooding. Hurricane Irma in 2017 also caused significant power outages and infrastructure damage. This historical context reinforces the need for Altoona's residents to prepare diligently each year for the Atlantic hurricane season, despite its inland location.