County: Pittsylvania
ZIP Codes: 24527, 24540
Blairs, Virginia, located around 220 miles inland from the closest coast, is generally not subjected to the direct harsh impacts of a hurricane such as storm surge. However, depending upon the size and intensity of the hurricane, Blairs still stands at risk of experiencing significant effects in the form of rainfall and winds. Being relatively flat and at a low elevation, heavy downpours associated with hurricanes pose a significant risk in terms of flash floods and river flooding, notably along the Banister River, which runs close to the town. Additionally, strong wind gusts can result in power outages due to tree damage and downed power lines. Historically, remnants of Hurricane Fran (1996) and Hurricane Michael (2018), among other storm systems, have impacted this region, causing heavy rainfall, flooding, and damage to infrastructure. Moreover, the deadliest inland hurricane for Virginia was Hurricane Camille in 1969, showcasing that being inland does not exclude regions from potential harm. The magnitude of effects is usually dependent on the storm's intensity, duration, and rate of forward movement. Therefore, Blairs, Virginia, needs adequate preparation and responsive measures for potential hurricane threats given these historical precedents and geographical and topographical predispositions.