County: Levy
ZIP Codes: 32696, 32668
Williston Highlands, Florida, while having a certain degree of natural protection from its inland location, still faces risk from hurricanes, predominantly in the form of heavy rain, high winds, and resulting power outages. Due to its distance of about 30 miles from the Gulf coast, it is less susceptible to the storm surges typically seen in coastal towns. However, heavy rainfall could lead to flooding, especially in low-lying areas or those near water bodies. The town's relatively low elevation, with most of it lying less than 50 feet above sea level, could exacerbate the flood risks during a particularly intense weather event. Historically, several significant hurricanes and storms have impacted the town and its surrounding region. The most recent major event was Hurricane Irma in 2017 which caused widespread power outages and flooding across Florida, including Williston Highlands. Further back in 2004, Hurricane Frances dumped heavy rain on the area, leading to flooding, while in 1998, Hurricane Earl caused additional storm damage. With the increasing intensity of storms and hurricanes due to climate change, it's crucial for Williston Highlands residents to prioritize appropriate precautions before hurricane season and to follow local advisories and evacuations when necessary to ensure their safety.