Natural Disaster Risk in Arcadia

Natural Hazard Profile: Arcadia, Florida

Arcadia, in DeSoto County, is a city of approximately 29,863 residents situated near the Atlantic Coast of the southeastern United States. Its tropical climate brings warm temperatures year-round and high humidity, and in particular a June–November hurricane season that defines the risk landscape. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Arcadia residents and property owners must navigate.

Arcadia's overall natural disaster risk is rated 5.7/10 (Moderate) by FEMA's National Risk Index. Tropical cyclones are the dominant hazard, with the area facing threats from both direct landfalling hurricanes and the outer rain bands and storm surge of systems making landfall nearby. Secondary hazards include lightning and coastal flood.

Within Florida, Arcadia's risk is, near the 5.7/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of DeSoto County identifies hurricane as the foremost hazard, followed by lightning and coastal flood. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a moderate risk rating, Arcadia residents are well-served by maintaining standard preparedness practices — an emergency supply kit, awareness of local hazard seasonality, and insurance that covers the top local risks. Periodic review of coverage for hurricane is recommended.