Moderate Risk Florida  ·  Tornado / Flash Flooding

Suwannee County FL

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

5/ 10
Threat Score
Population
45
Area
689
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Flash Flooding
FEMA Disasters
6
federally declared

Suwannee County in north-central Florida along the Suwannee River faces moderate tornado and hurricane risk. The Suwannee River — immortalized in Stephen Foster's song — has repeatedly flooded Live Oak and surrounding communities. Tropical Storm Debby in 2012 caused catastrophic flooding as the storm stalled over Florida dropping enormous rainfall. The county serves as a regional hub for north-central Florida emergency coordination.

// 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 5 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Flash Flooding
Secondary Hazard Hurricane
FEMA Flood Zone Moderate
Federally Declared Disasters 6
Last Major Event Debby 2012
Event Frequency Annual

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (386) 364-3400
Emergency Shelters 4 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-10 US-129 FL-247 FL-51

// County Profile

County Suwannee County FL
State Florida (FL)
Population 45
Area 689 sq miles
FEMA Region Moderate

// Other Florida Counties