Why does the west coast of Florida (seem) to have worse storm surge than the east coast?

Question

Hurricane Ian had a ~18’ storm surge prediction in Fort Myers. I’ve grown up on the east coast of Florida and cannot recall surges ever being that high.

I believe a stronger storm (Dorian) was predicted to produce a 7’ surge on the east coast of Florida.

Also – it seems that other gulf states experience higher storm surges than the east coast of Florida.

What goes into the prediction of the surge? Does the water depth play a factor (shallower gulf)? Why does the gulf appear to have higher surges? Do the Bahamas offer some protection?

Thanks!

In: 1

Answer 1

Warmer in the Gulf of Mexico tends to be much warmer than the Atlantic. This creates a perfect breeding ground for a strong storm.