County: Sarasota
ZIP Codes: 34231
Ridge Wood Heights, Florida, being situated on the southwest coast of Florida, is at a high risk of experiencing hurricanes, and their related impacts such as storm surges, heavy rainfall, and strong winds. The town sits at an elevation of merely 20 feet above sea level meaning the risk of storm surges and flooding is particularly significant. Its proximity to the coast (less than 10 miles from the Gulf of Mexico) exacerbates this risk, making it vulnerable to tropical weather systems moving in from the Gulf. Over the past three decades, several major hurricanes have affected Ridge Wood Heights. Most notably, Hurricane Charley in 2004, which was a Category 4 storm at landfall, caused extensive damage in the area. Similarly, in 2017, Hurricane Irma, which made landfall as a Category 3 storm, resulted in severe flooding. Additionally, while not a hurricane, the 'no-name' storm of 1993 created significant flooding in the area and is remembered as one of the worst flood events in the town’s history. Therefore, preparation for hurricane season in Ridge Wood Heights should include plans to handle strong winds, heavy rainfalls, and potential flooding, especially for those located in low-lying areas.