County: Buchanan
ZIP Codes: 24607
While Breaks, Virginia is not situated on the coast, that does not completely exempt it from the potential dangers of a hurricane. Given its proximity to the Appalachian Mountains, rapidly descending rain from a tropical system can cause dangerous flooding. Breaks, which is situated at an elevation ranging from approximately 800 to 1,600 feet, can exhibit flash flood potential, specifically in the event of large, slow-moving hurricanes. Vehicular safety can be an issue, especially for those along highway 80. Power outages are also a concern, as strong winds can knock down trees and power lines. Visibility may also reduce significantly due to heavy rains and potential fog after the storm. In terms of historical hurricane and flood impacts, Breaks, Virginia's most significant event in the past 30 years would likely be the flood from Tropical Storm Isabel in 2003, which caused substantial damage to western Virginia. Similarly, other significant tropical cyclones like Hurricane Fran in 1996 and Hurricane Camille in 1969 left their mark in the form of flash floods and landslides throughout the state. Historically, hurricanes making direct landfalls can produce high rainfalls in the middle Appalachian region due to the elevation, which in turn, increases the risk of flooding in areas like Breaks.