What’s the Difference Between Storm Surge and Flooding and Why It Matters for Your Home
- Jansen Shutters & Specialties
- Nov 11
- 3 min read
When storm season hits, weather alerts often warn of both “storm surge” and “flooding.” Many Florida homeowners use the terms interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Understanding the difference between these threats is the first step toward real storm surge and flood protection in Southwest Florida.
Storm Surge: The Ocean Moves In
Storm surge occurs when powerful hurricane winds push ocean water inland, creating waves that can rise 10 feet or higher above normal tide levels.
In coastal cities like Sarasota, Longboat Key, and Siesta Key, storm surge is often the most destructive force of a hurricane, not the wind itself. It can arrive quickly, sometimes within hours, and cause catastrophic flooding in low-lying areas.
According to the National Hurricane Center, storm surge accounts for nearly half of all
hurricane-related deaths.
Flooding: Rain That Overwhelms the Land
Flooding, by contrast, comes from excessive rainfall that the ground and drainage systems can’t absorb. Inland neighborhoods, even miles from the coast, are vulnerable when rainfall exceeds. Unlike storm surge, this type of flooding can last for days, lingering long after a hurricane has passed.
Homes without proper drainage or with unprotected windows and doors are most at risk of interior damage.
Two Threats, One Solution
At Jansen Shutters & Specialties (JSS), we design products that protect against both wind-driven rain and rising water. Our aluminum rolling shutters, accordion systems, and Elite 2000 impact screens create sealed barriers that block rain, flying debris, and intrusion.
When paired with Somfy Smart Control, you can close shutters remotely before surge waters or heavy rainfall hit, keeping your home dry and secure, even if you’re away.
Storm Surge and Flood Protection in Southwest Florida: What You Can Control
Sarasota’s Dual Threat
The Sarasota County Emergency Management Office notes that much of the region is at or near sea level, meaning both surge and rainfall flooding are real possibilities. Historic storms like Hurricane Ian demonstrated how surge flooded barrier islands, while inland rainfall swamped neighborhoods far from the coast.
That’s why JSS urges every homeowner to treat both threats seriously and to invest in layered protection: impact-rated shutters, flood insurance, and proactive preparation.
5 Steps to Prepare for Surge and Flood Risk
1️⃣ Know your flood zone.
Visit msc.fema.gov to find your FEMA flood risk.
2️⃣ Protect your openings.
Use JSS rolling or accordion shutters to seal windows and doors.
3️⃣ Elevate valuables.
Store electronics and documents above ground level.
4️⃣ Automate closure.
Use the Somfy app to secure your home remotely when alerts are issued.
5️⃣ Maintain coverage.
Combine JSS protection with active flood insurance for full peace of mind.
The Best Defense Is Preparedness
Whether the threat comes from a surge or flood, physical barriers make the difference. With JSS products engineered for impact resistance and Somfy-powered control, your home stays ahead of both natural and human-made risks. For true storm surge and flood protection in Southwest Florida, it starts with the right systems, and smart preparation.
🔒 Schedule your free JSS flood and storm-readiness inspection today.
📍 Visit www.jansenshutters.com
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