County: Franklin
ZIP Codes: 32320, 32329
Apalachicola, located on the coast of the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, is highly prone to hurricane threats due to its low elevation and direct coastal exposure. The town's geographic layout comprises low-lying areas, with the majority of its terrain almost at sea level, and the surrounding bodies of water increase its susceptibility to flooding from storm surge during hurricanes. Notably, storm surge and flooding are two of the most damaging elements of hurricanes, often resulting in substantial infrastructure damage, displacement of residents, and risk to human life. Furthermore, considering Apalachicola's location in the Florida Panhandle, tropical cyclones frequently impact this area, with the potential for extreme wind damage. From a historical perspective, significant hurricane events in the past 30 years underscore the town's vulnerability. Hurricane Michael in 2018, a Category 5 storm, devastated the region causing extensive damage and flooding in Apalachicola. Earlier, in 2005, Hurricane Dennis, a Category 3 storm, also impacted this town with storm surge and extreme winds. The risks are intensified by the potential for rapid intensification of tropical cyclones in the Gulf of Mexico, leaving little time for residents to prepare or evacuate, as was the case with Hurricane Michael. Therefore, the residents of Apalachicola must remain vigilant during hurricane season and adhere strictly to local disaster preparedness and evacuation guidelines.