County: Hendry
ZIP Codes: 33935
Port LaBelle, Florida, situated only about 25 miles inland from the Gulf of Mexico, is subject to significant hurricane impacts. Being a part of Hendry County, the town is relatively vulnerable, especially considering the fact that it is in a low-lying region with most of the area's elevation below 26 feet, thereby increasing its risk of flooding from hurricane-associated rainfall and storm surge. The region's topography and proximity to water bodies such as the Caloosahatchee River could contribute to high water levels during extreme weather events. Historically, Port LaBelle has experienced numerous hurricanes and tropical storms including the devastating Hurricane Irma in 2017, which caused significant flooding and wind damage to the region. The area has also been impacted by Hurricane Wilma in 2005 and Hurricane Andrew in 1992, both of which left considerable damage in their wake. Consequently, residents of Port LaBelle should be well-prepared for possible evacuations, power outages, and damage to property from future hurricanes. Storm resilience and protection efforts, including flood defence systems and regular maintenance slash removal from drains and waterways, are crucial in mitigating these threats and enhancing the town's capacity to recover from the impacts of hurricanes.