Natural Disaster Fund
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Natural Disaster Fund
Hurricanes, flooding, extreme temps, tornadoes, and other natural disasters have the potential to affect Florida and surrounding areas in catastrophic ways. As a result, there are many people and locations in immediate and future need. The natural disaster fund provides the South Lake Community an avenue to donate and make a meaningful impact that starts locally.
76% of all storm events in Lake County are hurricane-related Making hurricanes the dominant disaster threat in the area
Lake County experiences repeated hurricane impacts from major storms like Irma (2017) and Milton (2024) Hurricanes are the costliest natural disasters in the U.S.
Lake County has recorded 27 flood-related events since the 1990s This includes flash floods and river flooding
Florida recorded 31,000+ heat-related emergency room visits and hospitalizations between 2018–2022 Extreme heat is one of the leading causes of weather-related deaths in the U.S
Heat index above 105°F = dangerous conditions Heat index levels of 105°F+ are considered dangerous and common in Florida summers. Florida recorded 215 heat-related deaths from 2010 - 2020.
83% of Lake County areas are potentially exposed to flooding impacts Flood events in Lake County have caused over $60 million in recorded property damage
Ready to make your impact in our community? Click the button below to donate today.
Hurricanes
Hurricanes are the most significant natural disaster risk in Lake County. Over 75% of all recorded storm events in the county are hurricane-related, and most federally declared disasters in the past two decades have been caused by hurricanes.
Even though Lake County is inland, hurricanes can bring destructive winds, heavy rainfall, and flooding.
Storms like Hurricane Milton in 2024, Hurricane Irma in 2017, and the destructive 2004 hurricane season where multiple storms caused widespread damage and long-term recovery challenges for local families are just a few examples. When talking about hurricanes and Florida it is not a matter of if it will happen, it is when and are we prepared to help our neighbors when it does come. Our fund helps provide immediate relief and critical resources to support our community before and after these events.
Flooding
Flooding is one of the most serious and growing risks in Lake County. Unlike coastal areas, flooding here is primarily caused by heavy rainfall, rising lakes, and overwhelmed drainage systems. Over the past several decades, the county has experienced dozens of flood events, including dangerous flash floods. In October 2025, a historic storm dropped up to 19 inches of rain in just hours, washing out roads, stranding residents, and causing widespread damage. Today, inland flooding remains a major threat, with millions of dollars in damage each year and increasing risks as development and extreme weather continue to grow.
Heat
Extreme heat is a growing threat in Lake County and across Florida. Unlike sudden disasters, heat impacts people every day during the long summer season. High humidity makes temperatures feel even hotter, often pushing the heat index above 100°F and into dangerous levels. Heat exposure can lead to serious illness, especially for seniors, children, and those without reliable access to air conditioning. In Florida alone, tens of thousands of heat-related emergency visits occur each year. As temperatures continue to rise, our community faces increasing risks; making access to cooling resources and emergency support more important than ever.
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