County: Henrico
ZIP Codes: 23222, 23223
East Highland Park, Virginia, given its inland location removed from the coast, does not bear the brunt of storm impact as seen in coastal regions. However, its proximity, about 83 miles from the Virginia coast, does not render it completely immune from the consequences of substantial hurricanes. High winds, heavy rain, and associated severe weather can extend well inland causing power outages, downed trees, structural damage, and potentially dangerous debris. The town's average elevation is a relatively low 161 feet above sea level, which does not inherently shield it from potential flooding. As East Highland Park is part of the Richmond Metropolitan Area, any hurricanes that have had significant effects on the Richmond Region would likely have also impacted East Highland Park. Notable recent storms include Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and Hurricane Floyd in 1999. Isabel caused significant damage in the form of downed trees and widespread power outages, while Floyd led to six deaths in the Richmond area due to intense and rapid flooding. Therefore, although East Highland Park town may not receive the most extreme impacts of a hurricane, the potential for high winds, heavy rain, and subsequent flooding poses a real threat. Preparation and planning for these aspects are vital for hurricane season in this region.