County: Middlesex
ZIP Codes: 23175
Urbanna, Virginia, though small in size and population, still holds significant potential for hurricane threats. Its location, while not directly on the immediate coastline, is proximal to the Rappahannock River, flowing directly into the wider Chesapeake Bay region. This geographical status potentially exposes Urbanna to storm surge and tidal effects from any significant hurricane that could strike the Virginia coastline. The town's relatively low elevation also increases the risk of flooding, particularly from heavy rainfall associated with hurricanes or tropical storms. In recent history, significant hurricanes such as Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and the more recent Hurricane Matthew in 2016 created an immense impact in the region. Hurricane Isabel, for instance, caused extensive property damage from a combination of storm surge, high winds, and heavy rainfall. These hurricanes also underscored the risk of prolonged power outages, water, and food shortage, which could potentially isolate Urbanna from outside help. Hurricanes with similar trajectories and intensity could potentially cause a similar level of damage, underlining the importance of regular review and updating of municipal preparedness and response plans.