The Meadows in Sarasota County, Florida, is located inland but is approximately 15 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, meaning that significant coastal storm surges are less threatening. However, its relatively flat terrain and low elevation can increase its vulnerability to flooding from significant, sustained rainfall events typically associated with tropical storms or hurricanes. Its flood risk is classified as moderate by some hazard assessments. Although less susceptible to the damaging winds and storm surges associated with landfalling hurricanes, The Meadows could still experience impactful conditions such as high winds, flooding, and even tornadoes - tornadoes being a less-common, but possible result of hurricanes. In the last 30 years, The Meadows has seen it share of impactful hurricanes. These include Charley in 2004, Frances and Jeanne in 2004, and Irma in 2017, all of which caused significant state-wide damage. Flooding from these storms oftentimes caused more damage than the wind in inland locations like The Meadows. It's important for residents to remain vigilant, heed evacuation orders if issued, and ensure they have a preparedness plan in place given the historical and ongoing threat that hurricanes pose to the region.