We know that storm surges can rise over 25 feet above normal tide levels. With the exception of a few areas, a large percentage of our residents live in areas that are less than a few feet above sea level. The land rises from approximately 5-6 feet along the coast to 40 feet in the inland areas. In the event of a major hurricane hitting Southwest Florida, many low lying coastal areas would be flooded to varying depths by the storm surge and tides which accompany the storm. Many of our coastal roads could be under water well in advance of the storm's arrival, restricting their use as evacuation routes.
Many areas are subject to flooding by storm tides.
Evacuation should be completed early to avoid the high winds and heavy rains which precede the arrival of the center of the storm.