High Risk Florida  ·  Hurricane / Storm Surge

Palm Beach County FL

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

8/ 10
Threat Score
Population
1,496,770
Area
1974
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Hurricane / Storm Surge
FEMA Disasters
58
federally declared

Palm Beach County on Florida's Gold Coast faces major hurricane risk from Atlantic storms. The 2004 and 2005 hurricane seasons brought multiple storms to the county, with Frances, Jeanne, and Wilma all causing significant damage within 14 months. The county's extensive coastline and inland waterways create complex storm surge and flooding scenarios.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 8 / 10    High Risk
Primary Hazard Hurricane / Storm Surge
Secondary Hazard Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Zone AE (High Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 58
Last Major Event Hurricane Frances (2004)
Event Frequency Major event every 3–5 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (561) 712-6400
Emergency Shelters 62 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-95 North, Florida's Turnpike North, US-441 North, SR-80 West

// County Profile

County Palm Beach County FL
State Florida (FL)
Population 1,496,770
Area 1974 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone AE (High Risk)

// Major Cities

Boynton Beach FL Boca Raton FL West Palm Beach FL

// Cities in This County

// Other Florida Counties