County: King George
ZIP Codes: 22448
Dahlgren Center, Virginia, located approximately 30 miles away from the Atlantic Ocean and sitting at a low elevation, maintains a moderate risk for hurricane impacts. The primary threat that hurricanes pose to this area is flooding, due to its flat landscape and proximity to both the Potomac River and Chesapeake Bay. The influence of these bodies of water can elevate storm surge risks during a hurricane, leading to potential damage to property, infrastructure, and the disruption of road access. Furthermore, prolonged heavy rain from a tropical system can exacerbate flooding risks. It's also worth noting that extreme winds from hurricanes could indirectly impact the town through tree damage which may cause power outages and property damage. Historically, Dahlgren Center has been subjected to the impacts of several hurricanes and major flooding events. One of the most significant impacts in the past 30 years was from Hurricane Isabel in 2003 which caused widespread damage across Virginia, particularly through storm surge along the coast and tidal Potomac River. In 2011, Tropical Storm Lee caused significant rain-induced flooding, reminding the community of the risk even though it is a fair distance from the ocean. Preparation for hurricane season should include a focus on flood risk, taking into account storm severity and the potential for increased precipitation due to climate change considerations.