County: Palm Beach
ZIP Codes: 33476
Pahokee, Florida, situated along the southeastern shore of Lake Okeechobee, is at certain risk from hurricane threats due to the dual threats of winds and storm surges that can come from the lake. Although the town is not directly on the coast, it is still vulnerable to hurricanes, particularly those that take track across the peninsula. The elevation in Pahokee is relatively low, with an average of only 16 feet above sea level, which heightens the risk of flooding when a hurricane strikes. This issue is compounded by Lake Okeechobee, which, in the event of a hurricane, can cause severe flooding in the town. Pahokee's history underscores the risk; the town has endured hurricanes directly and indirectly, with resulting flood damage. For instance, in the last 30 years, the town has experienced major hurricanes including Andrew (1992), Wilma (2005), and Irma (2017). Hurricane Wilma in particular recorded flooded streets and wind-damaged homes in Pahokee. Also, the nearby Lake Okeechobee poses a high risk for serious flooding. It was the flooding caused by the Lake Okeechobee Hurricane in 1928 that claimed many lives, a scenario that Pahokee hopes to prevent by maintaining the Herbert Hoover Dike around the lake. However, given that the dike has containment issues, Pahokee's residents need to be aware of the gravity of storms and be prepared in case of potential breaches.