County: Northampton
ZIP Codes: 23350
Exmore, Virginia, while not directly on the coastline, still must be cautious regarding potential hurricane impacts; it's relatively close proximity to both the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean leaves it open to hurricane-associated risks such as heavy rain, high winds, and flooding. Given its low elevation, around 49 feet, the area can become prone to severe storm surge if a hurricane's track shifts towards the Chesapeake Bay. Flash flooding can be a particular concern for this area during substantial rainfall events. This is amplified by the fact that the town can be the recipient of rain not only from the hurricane's immediate effects but also from precipitation runoff from higher neighboring elevities. Historically, Exmore has experienced the impact of several significant hurricanes and tropical storms. A poignant example would be Hurricane Sandy in 2012; even though the storm did not make direct landfall in Virginia, its extensive field and slow-moving nature caused major flooding and wind damage in Exmore and surrounding areas. In 2003, Hurricane Isabel brought heavy rains, severe winds, and extensive flooding to the region. Also noteworthy is the 1999 Hurricane Floyd; it caused one of the most severe floods in the town’s history, inflicting a lot of damage to the infrastructure. Hence, Exmore's history with these impactful events should serve as a reminder that despite its inland location, the threat from hurricanes is very real and can be quite substantial.