County: Miami-Dade
ZIP Codes: 33154
Bay Harbor Islands, Florida, is a barrier island town located in Miami-Dade County, just across the Biscayne Bay from mainland Miami. Due to its coastal location, Bay Harbor Islands is susceptible to significant impact during hurricane events. The town is especially vulnerable to storm surges due to its low-lying topography, which increases its risk of flooding during a severe weather event. The region has a history of hurricanes and storm surge flooding, particularly during the Atlantic hurricane season that extends from June 1 to November 30. In the last 30 years, Bay Harbor Islands has been hit by several major hurricanes and tropical storms. The most catastrophic in recent history include Hurricane Andrew in 1992, which was a Category 5 storm, and Hurricane Irma in 2017, which was a Category 4 storm. Both these hurricanes led to severe flooding, infrastructural damage, and loss of life throughout Miami-Dade County. Hurricane Wilma in 2005, a Category 3 storm, likewise had a significant impact on the town. As climate predictions anticipate stronger, more frequent hurricanes, Bay Harbor Islands must prioritize hurricane preparedness, which may include the strengthening of infrastructural resilience and establishing efficient evacuation plans.