County: St. Johns
ZIP Codes: 32086
St. Augustine Shores, Florida, is a coastal community that faces a significant risk and vulnerability to hurricane impacts due to its proximity to the Atlantic coast. The low elevation of the town can contribute to severe flooding, especially if a hurricane coincides with a high tide. Impact from storm surge is a major concern, with potential for significant structural damage and temporary isolation of neighborhoods. Heavy rainfall can also contribute to inland flooding. Historically, St. Augustine Shores, lying in a transition zone between tropical and temperate climates, has been in the path of numerous tropical cyclones. The most significant storm in recent history was Hurricane Matthew in 2016, which produced considerable storm surge in St. Augustine Shores and led to significant flooding, damage to infrastructure and residences, and widespread power outages. In 2017, Hurricane Irma also caused substantial flooding and wind damage. Preparing for hurricanes should include evacuation planning, understanding local flood risk and exposure, and securing insurance to cover potential damage. It would be prudent for residents to be mindful of potential wind damage, heavy rainfall leading to flooding, and storm surge when a hurricane threatens, and to heed evacuation orders when issued by local officials.