County: Scott
ZIP Codes: 24258, 24251
Hiltons, Virginia, situated approximately 250 miles from the nearest coast in a mountainous region, is relatively safe from direct hurricane impacts such as storm surge and raging winds. However, hurricanes that move inland can still significantly affect the town in the form of heavy rainfall leading to flooding, especially along creek basins, and landslides due to its elevation. In addition, strong winds could lead to tree damage and power outages.
Reviewing the past three decades, the town has witnessed several tropical systems which have caused varying degrees of flooding and wind damage. The most significant of these was perhaps Hurricane Fran in 1996, which traveled up the east coast and inland, leading to severe flooding. Most recently, remnants of Hurricane Florence in 2018 brought heavy rains to the region, leading to localized flooding and wind damage. Climatology suggests that Hiltons, while not incredibly prone to direct hurricane hits, must maintain preparedness for the indirect consequences of these storms. Resident should be ready to deal with possible power outages, landslides, and flooding during hurricane season each year.