County: Franklin
ZIP Codes: 24065
Boones Mill, Virginia, though located inland, is not entirely exempted from hurricane threat. It is roughly 250 miles inland from the Atlantic coast, which decreases the direct risks associated with saltwater storm surges. However, inland areas can experience significant impacts from wind damage and freshwater flooding triggered by the high volume of rain dropped by a hurricane passing overhead. The town's elevation varies between 900 and 1300 feet, which can limit flood risks in some areas though low-lying regions and areas near bodies of water are still susceptible to significant flooding. In the past, nearby major rivers and streams have been known to overflow, causing damage to surrounding property and infrastructure. Looking at the historical data, the area has seen impacts from several notable hurricanes and storms over the past 30 years. This includes remnants of Hurricane Fran in 1996 which caused widespread and significant flooding, and Hurricane Isabel in 2003 which left considerable wind damage in its wake. In 2018, the remnants of Hurricane Michael also caused notable damages to parts of Southwest Virginia due to high and volatile winds and incessant rain. Each storm has left lasting effects on the community and demonstrated the potential threats hurricanes can pose to Boones Mill, underscoring the need for careful monitoring and ongoing preparedness efforts.