County: Miami-Dade
ZIP Codes: 33128, 33129, 33125, 33126, 33127, 33149, 33144, 33145, 33142, 33139, 33138, 33137, 33136, 33135, 33134, 33133, 33132, 33131, 33130, 33150, 33101, 33109, 33111, 33151, 33192, 33195, 33222, 33231, 33233, 33238, 33255, 33299
Miami, Florida, is at a high risk for hurricanes due to its geographical location, directly on the Atlantic coast. Its low elevation, with a significant percentage of the city sitting less than 5 feet above sea level, makes it particularly vulnerable to storm surges and flooding. The city's extensive coastline and numerous waterways that run throughout the city also contribute to the flood risk. Historically, Miami is susceptible to hurricanes during the Atlantic hurricane season running from June 1 to November 30, with the peak of the season being from mid-August to late October. Rising sea levels due to climate change have, in recent years, worsened the flooding situation in the city, making a hurricane's impact even more devastating. Additionally, Miami's growing population adds to the challenges of evacuation and disaster preparedness. In the last 30 years, Miami has experienced a number of significant hurricanes and flooding incidents. Noteworthy is Hurricane Andrew in 1992, one of the most destructive hurricanes to hit the U.S. It caused extensive damage to the city and left thousands homeless. More recently, hurricanes such as Irma in 2017 with its intense wind and storm surge, and even less intense tropical storms like Gordon in 2000 and Katrina in 2005, have triggered significant inland flooding, demonstrating the city's vulnerability not only to direct hurricane strikes but also to the broader impacts of nearby tropical storm systems. This history of impactful storms underscores Miami's ongoing risk and the need for constant awareness and preparedness during hurricane season.