Key Largo, considering its geographical location in the Florida Keys and its close proximity to the ocean, grants distinctive hurricane vulnerabilities. The town's low elevation (an average of about 3 meters above sea level), combined with its limited width across the island chain, enables hurricane-driven storm surge to easily inundate it from either side. Key Largo has a significant historical flood risk, which exacerbates during tropical disturbances. At points of storm surge or from heavy rain, almost the entire community can potentially be under water. Other hurricane impacts include wind damage, with trees and lighter structures being particularly at risk due to the lack of natural windbreaks. Furthermore, Key Largo has had direct hits from notable hurricanes over the past decades, including Hurricane Irma in 2017, which reached a category 4 storm with wind speeds up to 130 mph, significantly impacting properties and infrastructure. In 1992, Hurricane Andrew also caused considerable damage to Key Largo despite the center of the storm making landfall farther north. Preparations for any future hurricanes should therefore include proper evacuation plans, given the town's vulnerability to hurricanes and the limited mainland access due to the nature of highway connection with the rest of Florida.