County: Accomack
ZIP Codes: 23407, 23359, 23308
Mappsville, Virginia, is located quite close to the eastern seaboard of the United States, which makes it susceptible to the potential threats associated with hurricanes. It falls within a coastal region that experiences the effects of Atlantic hurricane season, typically running from June to November, with peak storm frequencies observed typically in August and September. Its coastal location implies that storm surge and high wind speeds are significant hazards during these events. Mappsville's elevation is relatively low, which means that in the event of substantial rainfall, there may be issues with water draining effectively, thus creating a considerable risk for flooding. Long term, this town would also need to account for the potential impacts of sea-level rise associated with climate change, as this will further increase flood risks. Within the past 30 years, numerous hurricanes, tropical storms, and nor'easters have impacted this area, including major events like Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Both these hurricanes inflicted severe damage due to their strength and immense precipitation distribution, leading to intensive flooding in low-lying areas around Mappsville. The consistent flooding history in this area underlines the need for improved flood management and mitigation strategies, particularly in hurricane-prone periods.