Apart from location location, you can build higher and sturdier. I went through 4 years of hell with an HOA and with the city to be allowed to build my bunker.
Please note: I am not at risk of major impacts (edit: from MILTON) since I'm in Broward County/Greater Ft Lauderdale.
I bought a lot inland in an area with modern utilities and all underground power lines. Also very close to a major hospital since they get power back to those quickly.
We built up the lot to a finished elevation of 11 feet above 100 year flood. All roof drains are plumbed to a canal behind the property. All exterior walls (and some interior) are 8 to 10" of poured concrete, poured concrete roof, "hurricane" windows and doors; reinforced garage doors. Large generator with a huge fuel tank. 2 safe rooms also. Landscaping was also chosen based on how sturdy the trees (required) are. No wood, no spanish tiles nor shingles.
It gets very pricey but it reduces the stress when the recurring storms come by.
Disclaimer: I specialize in determination and measurement of damages. During the past 40 years I have seen and been to disaster areas in various continents. After this and growing up in the Caribbean you learn quite a bit.
