Elliston, Virginia, due to its inland location and high elevation, is typically not at risk for the direct impact of hurricanes that often hit the coastal regions of Virginia. However, residents should still heed caution as hurricanes and tropical storms can still yield significant effects, such as heavy rain and fierce winds, leading to flash flooding and wind damage inland. Its elevation provides some natural protection against storm surge and general flooding, but heavy precipitations can lead to flash flooding, particularly in areas with steep slopes or poor drainage.

In terms of specific historic events over the past 30 years, Hurricane Fran in 1996 and Hurricane Isabel in 2003 should be noted. Both hurricanes, despite making landfall hundreds of miles away, resulted in heavy rainfalls in Virginia. In the case of Hurricane Fran, the storm brought heavy rain to the state, causing widespread flooding and deadly landslides. Recently in 2018, remnants of Hurricane Michael also caused significant rainfall in the area resulting in flash floods. Because of these past events, locals should regard hurricanes and strong tropical systems as a severe weather consideration, particularly for their potential to bring heavy rainfall and cause flash flooding.