County: Osceola
ZIP Codes: 34747
Celebration, Florida, being situated inland and approximately 77 miles from the East coast, still grapples with the threats poised by hurricanes. While the risk for direct hits from hurricane landfall is lowered due to its distance from the coastline, indirect impacts such as heavy rainfall, strong winds, and resulting storm surge are still a valid concern. The town, at a low elevation, approximately 82 feet above sea level, has a relatively high risk for potential flooding, especially during a substantial hurricane event. High volumes of rain can quickly transform into floodwaters, particularly in terrains with low elevation, putting lives, properties, and infrastructures at risk. Over the last 30 years, the town has been affected by major hurricanes passing through or near the region. The most significant impacts were from Hurricane Charley in 2004, which caused extensive damage in the area. While storm surge did not directly impact the town due to its location, the fierce winds and rainfall resulted in substantial damage. More recently, in 2017, Hurricane Irma served as a reminder of the hurricane risk that Central Florida possesses, with wind damage and localized flooding affecting the town. Each of these instances should serve as a reminder for residents to take every hurricane warning seriously and make appropriate preparations.