County: Frederick
ZIP Codes: 22645
Middletown, Virginia, due to its positioning inland and elevation, traditionally sees diminished hurricane impacts compared to the coastal areas of the state. The town's distance from the sea, roughly 150 miles, results in reduced wind speeds by the time storms reach the inland regions. However, it doesn't entirely exempt the area from the risk. The major concern for Middletown in a hurricane scenario is flooding, particularly flash flooding due to heavy rainfall associated with slowing or stalling hurricanes that dump large volumes of water over the region. The elevation of the town, although offering some degree of protection from surge flooding, doesn't prevent rainfall floods. Examining the past 30 years, Middletown has indeed seen its share of extreme weather events. While no major hurricanes have made direct hits, distant hurricanes and tropical storms have often caused substantial rainfall in the area. Notably, 2003's Hurricane Isabel, despite making landing in North Carolina, brought heavy rain to Virginia resulting in flood conditions in various locations. The remnants of Tropical Storm Lee in 2011 also caused significant flooding and damage across Virginia, again illustrating that Middletown remains at risk for severe weather, particularly flooding, during hurricane events even with its inherent geographical protections. Therefore, emergency planning in Middletown should prioritize flood prevention and response.