Doctor Phillips, located in Orange County, Florida, is situated about 85 miles inland from the Atlantic Ocean and roughly 75 miles away from the Gulf of Mexico. This inland position doesn't entirely shield the area from hurricanes but does offer some level of protection from direct hits and storm surges which often cause the most catastrophic damage. However, its relatively flat elevation, characteristic of much of Florida, makes it susceptible to rainfall-induced flooding. Moreover, as rainbands from hurricanes and tropical storms can extend significantly inland, high winds, heavy rainfall, and tornados spawned by hurricanes are a considerable threat. Historically, Doctor Phillips has experienced the effects of several major weather events that have hit Florida over the past 30 years. Notable among these is Hurricane Charley in 2004, a category 4 storm which crossed over Central Florida causing extensive winds and rain damage. Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne, both occurring in that same year, also impacted the area with strong winds, heavy rainfall, and resultant flooding. More recently, in 2017, Hurricane Irma caused significant rainfall and wind damage in the region. While these events may not represent a typical year, these hurricanes underscore the importance of preparedness and taking official severe weather warnings seriously in Doctor Phillips, Florida.