Greenwood, Florida, is located approximately 85 miles inland from the Gulf Coast, which reduces, but does not completely eliminate, the direct impact of storm surges often associated with hurricanes. However, this town, with a relatively low elevation, is still at risk for significant inland flooding caused by intense hurricane-related rainfall. Historical data suggest that Greenwood is not often subject to widespread, catastrophic flooding, but localized flooding during torrential downpours can be problematic, especially along nearby creeks and low-lying areas. Concerning wind damage, hurricane force winds can still reach this far inland, as Hurricanes Michael (2018) and Opal (1995) have demonstrated, causing downed trees, power outages, and structural damage.
In the last 30 years, the most significant hurricane to impact Greenwood was Hurricane Michael in 2018. Arriving as a Category 5 storm at the coast, it introduced severe wind conditions and heavy rainfall to the region, including Greenwood. This resulted in the destruction of homes and infrastructure, as well as causing extended power outages. Similarly, in 1995, Hurricane Opal crossed the Florida panhandle and affected Greenwood with high winds and heavy rain. This historical context shows that while Greenwood's inland location mitigates some risks associated with coastal hurricanes, the town remains at risk for severe wind and water damage, particularly from increasingly intense storm systems.
Greenwood, Florida, is located approximately 85 miles inland from the Gulf Coast, which reduces, but does not completely eliminate, the direct impact of storm surges often associated with hurricanes. However, this town, with a relatively low elevation, is still at risk for significant inland flooding caused by intense hurricane-related rainfall. Historical data suggest that Greenwood is not often subject to widespread, catastrophic flooding, but localized flooding during torrential downpours can be problematic, especially along nearby creeks and low-lying areas. Concerning wind damage, hurricane force winds can still reach this far inland, as Hurricanes Michael (2018) and Opal (1995) have demonstrated, causing downed trees, power outages, and structural damage.
In the last 30 years, the most significant hurricane to impact Greenwood was Hurricane Michael in 2018. Arriving as a Category 5 storm at the coast, it introduced severe wind conditions and heavy rainfall to the region, including Greenwood. This resulted in the destruction of homes and infrastructure, as well as causing extended power outages. Similarly, in 1995, Hurricane Opal crossed the Florida panhandle and affected Greenwood with high winds and heavy rain. This historical context shows that while Greenwood's inland location mitigates some risks associated with coastal hurricanes, the town remains at risk for severe wind and water damage, particularly from increasingly intense storm systems.
Always check the official government websites for the latest evacuation zone information.