Ridgecrest, Florida, is located relatively close to the Gulf Coast, placing it at a potential risk for hurricane impacts. Its modest elevation above sea level also poses a potential risk for storm surges and flooding, particularly if a hurricane approaches from the Gulf of Mexico. The impact severity will be influenced by the hurricane's strength, approach direction, speed or stalling duration over the area, and local tide timing. Heavy rainfall from both hurricanes and tropical storms can potentially lead to localized flooding. Furthermore, strong winds could cause damage to structures, boats, and vegetation, and may also result in power outages, especially if the storm is of high intensity. The recent history doesn't show Ridgecrest as the direct hit for major hurricanes, but there have been a few IPAC storms that have created impacts. For instance, Hurricane Irma in 2017 brought damaging storm surge, high winds, and heavy rain across wide areas of Florida, including Pinellas County where Ridgecrest is situated. Likewise, Hurricane Hermine in 2016 had similar impacts, with storm surge flooding along the coast, damage from high winds, and inland flooding caused by heavy rainfall. The region has also experienced minor flood events related to outfit bands from distant storm systems, seasonal high tides, or heavy rainfall events. Historical hurricane tracks indicate that storms can approach from nearly every direction due to Florida's peninsular geography. The community should be prepared for any storm's impacts regardless of its official Saffir-Simpson category upon approach to the coast.