Bordered by both the Gulf of Mexico and the Atlantic Ocean, Florida has more than 1,300 miles of coastline, putting it at an increased risk of storms, flooding, and damage to homes and apartments every hurricane season. In order to stay safe, it’s important for current and future Floridians to understand how the storms may impact the Sunshine State each year. Here’s a look at some of Florida’s hurricane statistics and what residents should prepare for during hurricane season.
Florida Hurricanes by the Numbers
Florida is by far the most hurricane-prone state in the country. Of the 292 hurricanes recorded in the United States since 1851, 120 have either made landfall in or directly hit Florida. That’s 41 percent of all the hurricanes that have been recorded in the U.S., and it’s more than double the number of storms that have ever hit Texas, the country’s second-most vulnerable state.
Which Areas Are the Most Prone to Storms?
Because of Florida’s unique peninsular shape, some areas within the state are more likely than others to feel the effects of a hurricane. Northwest Florida, which includes communities along the panhandle, sees the most hurricanes each year due to the shallow, warm waters of the Gulf of Mexico. Unsurprisingly, areas in the southeast and southwest of the state (at the tip of the peninsula) are also especially vulnerable.
An Unusually Calm 2020
Meteorology has come a long way in its ability to accurately forecast and track storms long before they make landfall, but hurricane season remains relatively unpredictable. For example, although 2020 was a difficult year in many respects, Floridians actually enjoyed a calmer-than-usual hurricane season. The state was only touched by four of the dozens of named storms that hit the U.S. during the 2020 hurricane season, with Hurricane Sally being the only destructive major storm.
Although hurricane season in Florida is often unpredictable, having a secure place to call home can help to keep you and your property safe. At Beachside Apartments, all of our apartment plans are outfitted with impact glass windows, which can withstand up to 135-mph winds. To learn more about the features of our apartments or your leasing options, contact us today by filling out our online form or calling 321-779-0601.
