Cross City, Florida is situated approximately 20 miles inland from the Gulf coast, which could somewhat temper direct hurricane impacts, it is not fully immune considering the varying paths hurricanes may take. Its relative low elevation increases the risk of inland flooding from storm surges, especially as these storms are intensifying due to changes in climate. Previously occurring storms and associated flooding confirm its vulnerability. Additionally, Cross City's location near vast, shallow bodies of water—like the Suwannee River and extensive wetlands—contributes to this risk, as slow moving or stalling storms can cause these bodies of water to overflow, resulting in extensive flood damage. Over the past 30 years, several significant storms have impacted Cross City. In 1995, Hurricane Opal passed near the area, bringing substantial rainfall and resulting in powerful storm surgeries. More recently, Hurricane Michael in 2018, one of the most intense hurricanes on record to hit the United States, affected the entire Florida Panhandle, including Cross City, where it caused significant wind damage and rainfall. Therefore, Cross City is susceptible to both wind and water-related hurricane hazards and any future hurricane preparedness plan should address these considerations to mitigate potential impacts.