County: Scott
ZIP Codes: 24251
Gate City, Virginia, though being inland and approximately 300 miles from the coastline, is not entirely immune to the impacts of hurricanes, especially when it comes to the remnants of these powerful storms that bring with them heavy rain causing a flood risk. The town lies in the valley of the Clinch Mountain with average elevation around 1300 feet, potentially suffering from increased flood risk due to runoff. The historical record shows the town and the surrounding Scott County possesses a moderate risk for flash flooding, particularly when tropical systems move into the area and stall, producing extreme rainfall over a concentrated area. Over the past 30 years, some hurricanes and tropical storms have significantly impacted Gate City and its surroundings, causing flood damage. Hurricane Fran (1996) and Hurricane Floyd (1999), for example, caused widespread flooding in Southwest Virginia, although Gate City's specific impacts from these storms are not well-documented. More recently, the remnants of Hurricane Florence in 2018 also led to significant rainfall in the area. Therefore, while Gate City does not typically experience the full force of hurricanes as seen in coastal towns, it is susceptible to heavy rainfall and potential flash flooding from the remnants of these storms. It is advisable for residents of Gate City to always heed the warnings and advisories from local emergency management agencies and the meteorological services.