County: Fairfax
ZIP Codes: 22310, 22315
Franconia, located over 100 miles inland from the coast in Northern Virginia, still faces potential risks from hurricane threats, although the direct impact may be lesser than coastal regions. It is at a low elevation, and tends to absorb a large amount of rain from hurricanes, which can result in a high risk for flooding. Historically, Franconia is not particularly susceptible to flooding due to its elevated position relative to the Potomac River and other bodies of water. However, depending on the path and specific characteristics of a hurricane, localized flooding cannot be ruled out, especially in urban areas where there is a lot of impervious surface. Notably, Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012 created impactful weather conditions over much of Northern Virginia, including Franconia. The heavy rains and strong winds caused significant power outages, road blockages due to fallen trees, and disrupted public transportation systems. There have been instances of flash flooding due to some storms in the last 30 years; nevertheless, major flood events remain relatively rare. It's critical for residents to monitor local forecasts closely when a hurricane is forecast to impact the region, and be prepared for possible hazardous conditions such as power outages, wind damage, and roadway flooding.