County: Collier
ZIP Codes: 34114
Verona Walk, Florida, is located in close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico, and this coastal location exposes it to potential storm surge threats during a hurricane. Even without a direct landfall, tropical storms or hurricane-force winds can trigger significant storm surge along the coast, causing extensive flooding. The region's terrain is flat with elevations almost at sea level, and its extensive system of man-made lakes creates a complex network of waterways that can facilitate water intrusion. Thus, tropical rainbands associated with hurricanes can lead to heavy rainfall which, coupled with the above conditions, increases the potential for severe flooding.
Historically, Verona Walk and the broader Naples region have seen their share of major hurricanes and floods. Notably, it saw an impact from Hurricane Irma in 2017, which caused significant damage from both winds and storm surge flooding. A storm the magnitude of Irma, which reached Category 5 intensity in the Atlantic, demonstrates the town's vulnerability to hurricanes. Additionally, the nearby city of Naples broke its record for storm surge during Irma, indicating that Verona Walk also likely saw extensive storm surge impacts. Residents and stakeholders must consider these factors and potential threats while planning and preparing for future hurricane seasons.