Palatka, located in Putnam County, Florida, lies roughly 60 miles from the coast, which could prove to provide a buffer from the intense immediate coastline impacts of a hurricane, such as storm surges. However, Palatka is not immune to the dangers of high winds, heavy rainfall, and tornadic activity commonly associated with hurricanes. The town's relatively low elevation, with most of the area sitting at or below 50 feet above sea level, combined with the proximity to the St. Johns River, increases the potential for inland flooding during heavy rain events. Historically, Palatka has experienced periods of flooding following tropical systems, specifically when those systems move slowly or stall over the state, allowing copious amounts of rainfall to accumulate. Reviewing the past 30 years, one of the significant hurricanes that impacted Palatka was Hurricane Irma in 2017. As a menacing Category 4 hurricane, Irma caused extensive damage to Palatka — primarily in the form of potent gusty winds, despite the city's inland status. The rainfall also led to excessive runoffs and subsequent flooding of the St Johns River, impacting local homes and businesses. In 2004, Hurricanes Frances and Jeanne also brought heavy rain and wind to the town. Therefore, local residents, town planners, and emergency services must remain informed and prepared for hurricanes and other tropical cyclic disturbances. This area's planning should also take into account not only immediate impacts but also the potential for riverine flooding in the days following the storm due to the levels of the St Johns River.