Tampa's In Trouble

Tampa has had a reputation for being relatively safe from hurricanes. With the approach of Hurricane Ian, it looks like that is about to change. Even if the city is spared a direct hit, it's in serious danger from storm surge, which could inundate large portions of the city and surrounding coastal areas.

The Tampa Bay Times recently published a series of articles called Rising Threat which looks at the risks Tamps faces from hurricanes. It's gripping and occasionally grim reading.  Keep in mind, as the articles point out, that even a relatively weak storm could wreak havoc, and Ian is not a weal storm. 

Tampa Bay is more vulnerable to less intense hurricanes than anywhere else in the state. The perilous position is a matter of both geography and explosive development. The threat is greater because too few people comprehend it. Faulty maps, complicated science and outdated mindsets instill a false sense of security.

The region’s vulnerability has drawn national headlines. Fascination turns on an imagined Category 5 laying waste to cities. With potential surge cresting 20 feet, a big storm would no doubt be devastating. But dwelling on a Hollywood doomsday obscures threats that residents are more likely to encounter and could more reasonably prepare for.

Update: I wrote this yesterday evening. As of this morning it looks like Ian may make landfall south of Tampa, which would spare it the worst of the storm surge. Even then, there could be a lot of flooding the Tampa Bay area.