County: Craig
ZIP Codes: 24127
New Castle, Virginia, being approximately 180 miles inland, does not face an immediate threat from hurricanes due to its distance from the coast. However, this doesn't make it immune to the effects of tropical systems, including heavy rains and high winds that can cause power outages and infrastructure damage. New Castle's elevation, at approximately 1,073 feet, could potentially lead to landslides or mudslides during extreme precipitation events. Historically, the town is not in a high-risk flood zone, but during particularly heavy rainfalls, the potential for flash flooding cannot be disregarded, especially around low-lying areas and waterways.
Based on historical data, hurricanes that have significantly affected the region in the past 30 years include Hurricane Fran in 1996 and more recently, Hurricane Florence in 2018. Both these hurricanes brought heavy rains to the region, causing local streams and rivers to flood. Despite the distance from the coast, it's important for New Castle residents to be prepared for potential impacts, watching for upland flooding, fallen trees, and potential landslides associated with these systems. Emergency plans should include both evacuation routes and sources for emergency weather information.