County: Candler
ZIP Codes: 30439, 30451
Pulaski, Virginia, located in Southwest Virginia, isn't coastal but still holds some risk for hurricane impacts, primarily through flooding due to heavy rainfall and damaging winds. While storm surge is not a primary risk due to its geographical location roughly 300 miles inland from the nearest coast, it's important to note that significant hurricanes can still affect the area. The town's elevation averages at 687 feet, which can lead to dangerous flash floods in case of intense rainfall. Historically, Pulaski, being part of the New River Valley, is prone to both flash floods and river flooding. The town has indeed grappled with notable weather incidents over the past 30 years. The remnants of Hurricane Fran in 1996 caused widespread flooding across Pulaski County, emphasizing how distant storms can significantly impact the locality. More recently, in 2011, Hurricane Lee caused severe flooding that led to the declaration of a state of emergency in the county. Therefore, while the direct hit of a hurricane is somewhat rare, the aftershocks of these events and other tropical systems are a serious consideration for Pulaski, requiring consistent monitoring and preparation.