County: Orange
ZIP Codes: 22942, 22923
Barboursville, Virginia, being approximately 120 miles away from the coast, is not a direct frontline hitter when it comes to hurricane landfalls, but it is still significantly at risk from the delayed impacts of hurricanes, typically consisting of strong winds, heavy rainfall, and resultant flooding. The town's elevation ranges from 500-650 feet which adds to the complexity of storm impacts, as higher terrains can enhance rainfall leading to an increased flood risk. This is particularly critical as remnants of hurricanes often interact with the topography of the region, significantly increasing localized rainfall totals. Historically, the flood risk has been high. Flooding typically occurs in low-lying areas, near rivers, streams, and creeks, and can be exacerbated by drain blockage and poor soil absorption, potentially causing significant property damage and loss of life. In recent years, the most notable hurricanes that have impacted Barboursville and its surrounding areas include Hurricane Fran (1996), Hurricane Isabel (2003), and Hurricane Matthew (2016). These storms brought heavy rainfall and strong winds that led to wide-spread power outages, fallen trees, damaged property, and severe flooding. The 2003 Hurricane Isabel was especially devastating in that it resulted in Virginia's largest power outage delivery. More recent storms, like the remnants of Hurricane Michael in 2018, have shown that even weakened systems can cause significant torrential rainfall and flooding. Considering these historical records and Barboursville's geographical considerations, the potential for severe hurricane impacts, especially flooding, is a key concern in the region.