County: Citrus
ZIP Codes: 34452
Inverness Highlands South, located in Central Florida approximately 20 miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico, is susceptible to tropical storms and hurricane threats primarily during the Atlantic hurricane season that runs from June through November. This region, despite its distance from the shore, is vulnerable to rain bands associated with tropical systems, heavy persistent rainfall, and can experience varied levels of storm surge from hurricanes making landfall in nearby coastal areas. The area is relatively flat, with an average elevation less than 75 feet, indicating a medium to high flood risk during heavy rainfall events. Historically, the town has been directly and indirectly impacted by major storm systems. Most notably, in October 1995, Hurricane Opal bubbled inland, bringing intense rains and winds, resulting in property damage and power outages in the area. Moreover, the widespread flooding event in September 2004 from Hurricane Jeanne posed a significant threat to the region. Also in 2004, the area experienced considerable indirect impacts from Hurricanes Charley and Frances, both Category 4 storms. The collective damage from multiple storms in quick succession in 2004 led to widespread flooding and infrastructure damage. Therefore, residents and stakeholders in Inverness Highlands South should ensure flood mitigation measures are in place, owing to the area's historical susceptibility to severe wet weather events.