County: Accomack
ZIP Codes: 23303
Atlantic, Virginia, given its close proximity to the coastline, falls within a particularly vulnerable location to hurricanes and tropical storm systems originating from the Atlantic Ocean. The area is largely at risk for damaging winds, storm surges, and heavy rainfall that can lead to severe flooding, given its low-lying topographic characteristics. Atlantic hurricanes often during the peak season from August to October can also result in widespread power outages, infrastructure damage and disruption to local transportation and emergency services. For residents, it is an absolute requisite to be prepared with an evacuation plan, beforehand, considering the town's vulnerability to these climate events. In the past 30 years, Atlantic, Virginia has faced significant weather events like Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012, both of which have showcased the town's susceptibility to hurricane impacts. Hurricane Isabel resulted in widespread infrastructure damage and flooding throughout Atlantic. Hurricane Sandy, on the other hand, caused major destruction along the coastlines and was accompanied by significant storm surges, torrential rains, and heavy flooding. Additionally, the extreme rainfall has also led to a high risk of inland flooding over the years, especially due to the increasing trends of climate change and sea level rise. Therefore, local residents and communities need to take such historical events into account when considering preparations and planning for future hurricane events.