Storm surge, the abnormal rise in seawater level during a hurricane or other intense storm, is a significant threat to coastal communities. It’s crucial to understand how far inland storm surge can travel to properly assess risk and prepare for potential evacuations.
Storm surge is essentially water pushed onto the land by the force of a hurricane’s winds. This water can inundate coastal areas, causing widespread damage and posing a serious threat to life.
Factors Influencing Inland Surge Penetration
The distance storm surge travels inland depends on several factors:
- Storm Intensity: Stronger storms with higher wind speeds generate larger storm surges.
- Coastal Topography: Low-lying coastal areas are more vulnerable to inland surge penetration than areas with higher elevations. The slope of the land and the presence of natural barriers like dunes or bluffs also play a role.
- Shape of the Coastline: Bays and estuaries can funnel storm surge further inland.
- Tidal Stage: Storm surge occurring during high tide will result in higher water levels and greater inland penetration.
- Forward Speed and Angle of Approach: A slow-moving storm or a storm approaching perpendicular to the coastline will generally produce a greater surge at a particular location.
The Devastating Reach of Storm Surge Inland
Storm surge is not limited to immediate coastal areas. It can extend surprisingly far inland, especially along rivers, bays, and other waterways. This is because water seeks the path of least resistance, and these natural channels provide a route for the surge to penetrate deeper inland.
The surge can range from a few feet to over 30 feet in extreme cases. It is fast-moving and fast-rising, capable of washing away buildings, roadways, and infrastructure. It’s a life-threatening hazard that demands respect and preparation.
Examples of Inland Storm Surge Impact
Hurricane Ian provides a stark example of how far inland storm surge can reach. The storm surge reached up to 15 feet at the coast on Fort Myers Beach and was pushed 15 miles inland. Along rivers and waterways, storm surge was pushed up to 24 miles inland, reaching depths of up to eight feet.
Storm surge affecting different evacuation zones
Storm surge impacts on different evacuation zones based on predicted surge height, illustrating the risks of flooding, structural damage, and potential for fatalities.
Knowing Your Evacuation Zone
Evacuations are based on storm surge predictions. It is vital to know if you are at risk from storm surge by looking up your evacuation zone. In Pinellas County, you can learn your evacuation zone through:
- Online at Know Your Zone
- Ready Pinellas mobile app (Android, iOS)
- (727) 453-3150 (for Pinellas County landline phones only)
- Utility bill (Pinellas County customers)
Remember, residents of mobile homes, manufactured homes, and recreational vehicles must always evacuate, regardless of their evacuation zone. Mobile homes cannot withstand strong winds. Furthermore, residents who are dependent on electricity should always evacuate due to winds for all category hurricanes.
Protecting Yourself from Storm Surge
- Evacuate When Ordered: If you are in an evacuation zone, heed evacuation orders immediately.
- Know Your Zone: Determine your evacuation zone before a storm threatens.
- Have a Plan: Develop a family emergency plan that includes evacuation routes, communication strategies, and essential supplies.
- Stay Informed: Monitor weather forecasts and emergency alerts from reliable sources.
- Never Drive Through Floodwaters: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
Conclusion
Storm surge is a dangerous and potentially deadly phenomenon that can travel far inland. Understanding the risks and taking proactive steps to prepare can significantly improve your safety during a hurricane. Evacuate when told to do so, and remember: Run from the water, hide from the wind.
