Key West is the most hurricane-vulnerable community in the continental United States. The island sits at just 1-18 feet above sea level at the end of a 126-mile chain of islands connected by a single two-lane highway. A direct major hurricane hit would place essentially the entire island underwater. The Labor Day Hurricane of 1935 remains the most intense hurricane ever to strike the US mainland and struck the Keys directly killing over 400 people.
// 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.
- Emergency Food Supplies
- Water Filtration & Storage
- Backup Generator
- Solar Backup Power
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// Risk Intelligence
| Threat Score | 10 / 10 Critical |
| Primary Hazard | Hurricane / Storm Surge |
| FEMA Flood Zone | Zone VE (Critical Risk) |
| County FEMA Declarations | 72 |
| Last Major Event | Hurricane Irma (2017) |
// Emergency Information
| Emergency Phone | (305) 809-1000 |
| Evacuation Routes | US-1 North (only evacuation route) |
| Elevation | 1 ft above sea level |
// County Risk Profile
Monroe County FL
Florida · Hurricane / Storm Surge
View full county emergency preparedness profile →
10/10
Critical Risk