County: Lee
ZIP Codes: 33931, 34135, 34134
Bonita Springs, situated directly on the Gulf Coast of Florida, is exposed to significant risks from hurricanes. There is potential for not just high winds, but also storm surges, heavy rains and flooding--all of which can lead to widespread damage and disruptions. The city's relatively lower elevation, with certain parts lying at or below sea level, augments the flood risk. With expanding urbanization, natural flood barriers like wetlands have been degraded, which can escalate the risk of storm surge flooding. This area has witnessed the impact of several major hurricanes over the past few decades, serving as a stark reminder of the potential threats it faces. In recent history, the city was greatly impacted by Hurricane Irma in 2017 - a Category 4 storm that resulted in significant property damage and flooding. Prior to that, Hurricane Andrew made landfall near the area in 1992 causing tremendous destruction. The risk of similar occurrences remains high. Forward-thinking infrastructure planning geared towards storm resistance, coupled with vigilance during the Atlantic hurricane season (June to November), could go a long way in mitigating the possible hazards to the city and its residents. As the climate continues to change, city planners and residents must consider the likelihood of increased hurricane frequency and intensity.