County: Marion
ZIP Codes: 34482
Ocala Estates, Florida, is situated about 75 miles inland and, as such, does not bear the direct brunt of hurricane landfall as the coastal cities typically do. Nevertheless, the town is not immune to the impacts of hurricanes. Most notably, hurricane-driven heavy rainfall can lead to significant flooding, especially because Ocala Estates is near rivers and bodies of water. Furthermore, high wind speeds accompanying hurricanes can lead to structural damage, uprooting of trees, and power outages. The town’s geography is mostly flat, which does not dissipate floodwaters rapidly, and this factor could exacerbate the flooding impact. Regarding historical precedents, Hurricane Frances in 2004 made a significant impact, causing widespread power outages and considerable damage to properties in the community. More recently, in 2017, Hurricane Irma brought a high volume of rain resulting in extensive flooding and wind damage. It's crucial for residents to stay informed about potential storm threats, despite the distance from the coast, and have a comprehensive hurricane preparedness plan in place. They should also be aware of their flood risk and make necessary home improvements, such as buying flood insurance and investing in home fixtures that withstand strong winds.