County: Louisa
ZIP Codes: 23093
Blue Ridge Shores, Virginia's distance from the coast, sitting approximately 150 miles inland, means that the town's primary hurricane risk comes not from storm surges and coastal flooding as seen in coastal areas, but from heavy rains and potential inland flooding. Because of its location in the Piedmont area, the region is susceptible to rapid watersheds which can contribute to sudden flooding events. Additionally, Blue Ridge Shores is located near Lake Louisa, which has risen significantly after past storms, presenting further flood risks. Flooding can lead to road closures, property damage, risks to public safety, and disruptions to utilities and services.
In the past 30 years, notable hurricane and flood events include Hurricane Fran in 1996 and Hurricane Isabel in 2003. Fran resulted in heavy rains and flooding across Virginia, with the Piedmont region experiencing significant effects. Isabel, though it weakened before reaching the state, brought heavy rainfall that flooded low-lying areas. Though both storms wrought havoc across the state, locally, Blue Ridge Shores was able to weather them relatively well thanks to its elevation and distance from storm surges. However, the risk of heavy rainfall-induced flooding from future hurricanes remains, and residents should remain vigilant and prepared for such events.