County: Pinellas
ZIP Codes: 33708, 33738
Madeira Beach, Florida, given its coastal location, faces a significant hurricane threat. The town is situated directly on the Gulf Coast, and thus has virtually no protection from incoming storms, aside from its seawalls. The topography of Madeira Beach is generally low-lying, which contributes to a high flood risk during storm events. This vulnerability to flooding is further intensified by the town's proximity to Boca Ciega Bay and the Gulf of Mexico. During a major storm, these bodies of water can substantially surge, causing significant inundation in the town. Regarding historical risk, Madeira Beach has seen a number of hurricanes and tropical storms come through the region over the past 30 years. Most notably, Hurricane Irma in 2017 caused considerable damage in the area, with reports of flooded homes and streets, high winds causing power outages and downed trees. With climate change forecasts predicting more frequent and intense storms in the coming years, Madeira Beach residents must prepare for increased hurricane risks. Mitigation efforts to protect against future storms could include home elevation, improved storm drainage, and advanced evacuation strategies.