Storm Surge Planning Zones
A Storm Surge Planning Zone is an area that could potentially be affected by a storm surge of 1 1/2 feet or higher during a hurricane. Evacuation decisions are heavily predicated on storm surge planning.
Upon identification of a threat, each zone (or portions of a zone) will be evacuated depending on the hurricane’s track and projected storm surge, independent of the hurricane's category. Look up your storm surge planning zone (map).
Remember these planning zones deal strictly with storm surge; you still need to determine if your home is safe to remain in during a hurricane.
Miami-Dade County's Emergency Operations Center or Mayor will use local media to relay pertinent information. You can register for emergency notifications to the device of your choice via Miami-Dade Alerts.
About the zones
Five zones, marked A through E, identify the risk of storm surge. Zone A is at greatest risk for Category 1 storms and higher. These planning zones deal strictly with storm surge, not your flood zone.- Zone A is at greatest risk for storm surge for Category 1 and higher storms.
- Zone B is at risk for storm surge for Category 2 and higher storms.
- Zone C is at risk for storm surge for Category 3 and higher storms.
- Zone D is at risk for storm surge for Category 4 and higher storms.
- Zone E is at risk for storm surge from Category 5 storms.
How the zones are created
Storm Surge Planning Zones are drawn using Sea, Lake and Overland Surge from Hurricanes (SLOSH) model grids that incorporate local physical features such as geographic coastal areas, bays, rivers, water depth and bridges. Areas along canals, rivers and further inland have been identified as being at risk for storm surge based on SLOSH data.Frequently asked questions
- Storm Surge Planning Zone - FAQ
- Storm Surge Planning Zone - FAQ (Espanol)
- Storm Surge Planning Zone - FAQ (Kreyol)
Disclaimer: Mobile home residents and people on electrically dependent life sustaining medical equipment should evacuate when any hurricane evacuation order is issued, regardless of their storm surge planning zone.
Emergency Management
Pete Gomez
R. David Paulison Fire Rescue Headquarters
9300 NW 41st St,
Miami, FL 33178-2414
305-468-5400 | eoc@miamidade.gov