County: Lee
ZIP Codes: 33990, 33993, 33914, 33991, 33909, 33904, 33910, 33915
Cape Coral, Florida, directly located on the Gulf Coast, is extremely vulnerable to hurricanes and tropical storms. Its proximity to the water intensifies the risk for storm surge flooding, one of the most damaging factors in a hurricane. Additionally, the city's low elevation exacerbates the flood risk with accumulated rainfall in a storm event causing inland flooding. Throughout history, Cape Coral has been in the path of numerous tropical cyclones, and the potential for substantial wind damage is high, particularly given that many structures in this region are not built to withstand extreme wind loads. Looking back at the past 30 years, Cape Coral has been impacted by some devastating major hurricanes and floods, highlighting the real and present danger. In 2004, Hurricane Charley, a Category 4 hurricane, made landfall in the area causing significant damage. In 2017, Cape Coral was severely impacted by Hurricane Irma, another Category 4 hurricane, leading to widespread flooding and damage. Therefore, sustained and pre-emptive hurricane preparation efforts and flood risk management planning is integral to the safety and resilience of this city and its residents.