Understanding the Storm Surge Map for Miami: What It Shows and How to Use It

In Miami, a storm surge map shows coastal and inland areas where water from hurricanes and other intense low-pressure systems can move onshore, helping residents understand flood risk before, during, and after a storm. These maps combine historical storm behavior, tide levels, coastal shape, elevation, and forecast wind and pressure to estimate where and how high water may travel, and they are updated as forecasts improve. This guide explains how storm surge maps work, how often they are refreshed during events, how to interpret the colors and zones, how they differ from flood and hurricane risk maps, and how Miami residents and planners can use them to prepare and respond.