Colonial Heights, located in the eastern part of Virginia and approximately 76 miles from Virginia's east coast, does face potential hurricane threats, albeit less frequently and with less severity than coastal areas. The city's distance from the coast does add a level of safety, allowing storms to weaken before reaching its vicinity. However, geographical considerations, like the fact that it lies near the James and Appomattox rivers and its relatively low elevation averaging 75 feet above sea level, do pose a legitimate flood risk. Historical events, such as Hurricane Isabel (2003), illustrate the potential for severe rainfall, flooding, and wind damage from tropical storm systems in this area. Over the past 30 years, Colonial Heights has been subjected to several significant storm events. Besides Hurricane Isabel, which produced significant flooding in the area, the city has also been affected by storms like Tropical Storm Gaston (2004), which resulted in considerable flooding and wind-related damage. It's crucial to note that while hurricanes and tropical storms are less common further inland, the associated threat of flooding due to heavy rain, river swelling, and storm surges in connected waterways remain a major concern for residents. As such, citizens of Colonial Heights should always stay prepared and vigilant during hurricane season.