County: Polk
ZIP Codes: 33860
Fuller Heights, Florida, is at a moderate risk for hurricanes due its relative close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean, where these formidable storms are typically spawned. The town's relatively low elevation and its location in a state with a flat topography increases vulnerability to storm surge, particularly if a hurricane tracks its way northward through the Gulf. Being inland, Fuller Heights does not typically face direct hurricane landfalls, but the threat from heavy rainfall and associated flooding remains a concern. While storm surge may not be the main threat here, heavy rain leading to inland flooding and high wind speeds can cause extensive damage to infrastructure and vegetation. Over the past 30 years, Fuller Heights has felt effects from several major hurricanes, including Hurricane Irma in 2017 which brought heavy rain to the region. While the town wasn't in Irma's direct path, the storm's vast size allowed its impact to spread widely. The flood risk is compounded by the history of the area, which also saw significant damage from hurricanes such as Hurricane Charley in 2004. Forecasting and early warning systems can greatly minimize these risks, but residents should always be prepared and have evacuation plans in place considering the area's historical weather trends.