Palmetto, Florida, being situated on the Gulf Coast, is considerably vulnerable to hurricane threats. Located near coastal waters, the city faces the potential for severe climate conditions when hurricanes or tropical storms hit with little to no natural barriers like mountains or hills to block incoming weather systems. The city's elevation is generally low, which increases the potential for storm surge and flooding damage, particularly in low-lying regions near the coast. The sea-land interface also raises the risk for high-speed winds which can cause significant property and infrastructure damage. Historically, Palmetto has encountered a number of notable hurricane and flooding events over the past three decades. Hurricane Irma, which struck in September 2017, produced significant storm surge and flooding in Palmetto. Another major system, Tropical Storm Debby in 2012, caused considerable rain-induced flooding. Similarly, in 2004 and 2005, the city was brushed by powerful Hurricanes Charley, Frances, and Wilma, which caused considerable wind damage and power outages, though the storm surge threat was less severe due to the city's distance from the hurricanes' landfall locations. Given this history combined with its geographical features, Palmetto remains highly susceptible to the adverse impacts of hurricanes and floods.