ATLANTA — While hurricane winds often get the most attention, storm surge is usually the deadliest part of a tropical cyclone, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  

Storm surge forms when powerful onshore winds push ocean water toward land, causing it to pile up and trigger rapid flooding.  

Several factors affect storm surge

There are many factors that impact storm surge, including a storm's size, intensity and the geography of the land it is hitting.  

Size and Strength

Stronger hurricanes generally produce higher surge because stronger winds push more water toward shore. Fast-moving storms can quickly pile water along the coastline, while slower storms may allow flooding to spread farther inland. In addition, large hurricanes produce more surge because the wind field is broader and the water gets pushed onshore longer.

Tidal Cycles

If storm surge hits during high tide, the water level can be significantly higher, leading to more severe flooding.

Angle of approach

Storms moving directly toward the coastline are more likely to produce greater surge than storms traveling parallel to shore.

Coastline shape 

Areas with shallow coastal waters are especially vulnerable because water can build more easily near shore. Curved coastlines and bays can also funnel water inland and increase flooding.

Why storm surge is so dangerous

Storm surge can flood homes, destroy roads and trap people in rapidly rising water.

A recent example of powerful storm surge happened during Hurricane Ian in 2022. Ian pushed catastrophic storm surge into Florida’s southwest coast, devastating communities near Fort Myers and flooding rivers and bays.  In Fort Myers Beach, storm surge reached 10 to 15 feet above ground level in some areas. Ian’s exact track, powerful winds and large size helped drive widespread destruction in Florida totaling over 109 billon dollars. 

While Ian was a strong Category four storm, storm surge can occur in weaker hurricanes, as well.  As we approach the 2026 hurricane season, disaster experts say it is important to know your home's elevation and area flood maps, protect your valuables and have an evacuation plan in place.  Storm surge can happen quickly and being prepared can keep you and your family safe.