Afton, Virginia, being situated 134 miles inland from the Virginia coastline, faces less immediate risk compared to coastal towns. However, the town is not immune from the effects of large-scale storms like hurricanes. The town's elevation, with parts of it situated on the slopes of Blue Ridge Mountains, offers some protection, but it also makes the town vulnerable to increased runoff and subsequent flooding. Hurricanes can bring heavy downpours over long periods, causing rivers and creeks, including the nearby Rockfish River, to rise rapidly and overflow their banks. This overflow can lead to potential flooding, mudslides and minor landslides, particularly in areas with steep slopes. The historical flood risk in Afton is moderate, with notable instances of floods in the past 30 years caused primarily by hurricanes or other severe weather events. The remnants of Hurricane Fran in 1996 brought substantial rainfall to the region, causing significant flooding. Another impactful event was Hurricane Isabel in 2003, which although weakening by the time it reached Afton, still resulted in significant rain and wind damage. Potential hurricane impacts for Afton therefore include not just significant rainfall leading to flooding, but also strong wind gusts that can result in downed trees and power outages. Residents need to be aware of the risks and have a plan for evacuation or sheltering in place if necessary.