County: Hopewell
ZIP Codes: 23860
Hopewell, Virginia, while not directly on the coastline, lies near the James River and the confluence with the Appomattox River, which ultimately poses a significant flood risk during a hurricane. Its relatively low elevation (approximately 31 meters above sea level) is an additional vulnerability, as it increases the likelihood of flood impact. More damaging than the wind speeds are typically the heavy rainfalls and the subsequent flooding events in this area. The unique geographical setting means that storm surge from a tropical system can push water up the James River, exacerbating flood levels in Hopewell. Additionally, local infrastructures, such as roads and bridges, could potentially suffer from erosion or even collapse in conditions of severe flooding, posing a direct risk to citizens and possibly isolating communities. Revisiting the historical weather records over the last three decades, Hopewell has been periodically affected by several significant hurricanes and tropical storms, including Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and Hurricane Matthew in 2016. Both these hurricanes brought about extensive damage to Hopewell due to storm surge and heavy rainfall. In particular, the impact of Hurricane Isabel was immensely felt, leading to widespread power outages, damage to buildings and properties, and causing several roads to be impassable due to falling trees and high water levels. A rising trend of frequency and intensity in hurricanes indirectly implies a more severe flooding risk for Hopewell in the future.