Brandon, Florida lies approximately 10 miles inland, east of Tampa. Although not directly along the coastline, Brandon is not immune to the threats posed by hurricanes, including high winds, intense rainfall, and resultant flooding. Brandon's topography of relatively low elevation makes it susceptible to flood risks, especially in the event of torrential rains delivered by tropical cyclagon systems. In recent years, urban sprawl has increased the flood risk by reducing the amount of land capable of absorbing rainwater, thereby increasing runoff into flooded areas. In historical terms, Brandon has experienced numerous large-scale hurricanes in the past 30 years. The most notable among these include Hurricane Irma in 2017, which caused widespread wind and water damage. Also, in 2004, Hurricane Frances caused severe flooding in Brandon due to its slow motion and heavy rainfall. Hurricane Jeanne, also in 2004, caused further damage to homes already affected by Hurricane Frances. Although storm surge flooding is typically less of a threat for Brandon as it is for coastal towns, the impact of intense rainfalls and the subsequent rise in the water levels of the Alafia River and other bodies of water cannot be underestimated.