Starke, Florida lies inland which provides it with some level of protection from the full brunt of hurricanes, but major storms can nonetheless deliver significant impacts. The town is situated approximately 60 miles from the Florida coast, meaning the most damaging aspects of hurricane landfall, such as the extreme wind speeds and storm surge, would likely reduce in intensity before reaching the town. However, storms can sometimes maintain or even increase their strength while progressing inland, particularly if they are travelling over warm, swampy land. This puts Starke in potential danger from high wind speeds, especially if a large or intense hurricane made a landfall near the town. Despite its inland position, rainfall-induced flooding can also pose a serious threat, particularly if a tropical system stalls over the region for a prolonged period of time. Starke is relatively flat with an average elevation of 171 feet above sea level, which can exacerbate flooding issues. Starke's position in northern Florida has subjected it to hurricanes and tropical storms in the past. Hurricane Irma in 2017 caused significant damage to the town, with wind damage and power outages among the key impacts. In the 1990s, it was impacted by Hurricane Opal and the 'no-name storm' in 1993, both of which caused substantial damage, predominantly from flooding. Historical records suggest hurricanes capable of causing local flooding and wind damage tend to occur in Starke roughly once every decade or so. Thus, preparedness for both wind damage and flooding should be a consideration for the residents of Starke.