County: Flagler
ZIP Codes: 32136
Flagler Beach, located right on Florida's east coast, is highly vulnerable to hurricanes due to its coastal position and substantial flood risk history. The close proximity to the ocean presents a direct line of threat from storm surges and high winds during a hurricane. Furthermore, considering the town has a mean elevation of fewer than 20 feet, resulting storm surge could be particularly damaging. The floods resulting from these storm surges, coupled with potential heavy rainfall, would place an enormous burden on drainage systems, posing significant structural damage threats to local residences and infrastructure.
Regarding significant hurricane history within the last 30 years, Flagler Beach was significantly affected by Hurricanes Irma in 2017 and Matthew in 2016, demonstrating the town's susceptibility to these natural disasters. Hurricane Matthew caused extensive beach erosion and property damage, while Irma resulted in widespread flooding, demonstrating the town's vulnerability to both wind and flood damage. Given this history and geographical attributes, hurricane preparedness and planning are essential for Flagler Beach.