Cypress Gardens, located in central Florida, is more than 60 miles inland from the Atlantic coast, which offers it some protection from direct landfall of hurricanes. Its average elevation is also approximately 120 feet above sea level, which reduces the risk of significant storm surge incidents. However, this doesn't mean the area is completely immune from hurricane threats. High-intensity winds, heavy rainfall, and the potential for tornados spawned from hurricanes can still pose significant sources of damage. Flooding risk is primarily from heavy rainfall accumulating faster than it can be absorbed or drained away, especially with local bodies of water such as Lake Eloise and Lake Summit in close proximity. Over the past 30 years, Cypress Gardens has seen its share of hurricane activity due to its state's geographical location. Major hurricanes impacting Cypress Gardens include Hurricane Charley in 2004, which caused significant wind and rain damage, and Hurricane Irma in 2017, which had disastrous flooding effects throughout the state of Florida. Both storms highlighted the need for preparedness, not just for coastal communities, but also inland areas like Cypress Gardens. Overall, while the community's risk from storm surge damage is lower, the threat from wind-damage and rainfall-induced flooding remains significant.