County: Fairfax
ZIP Codes: 22181, 22182
Wolf Trap, Virginia, while not directly on the coast, is still susceptible to hurricane threats due to its proximity to the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The town's relatively low elevation, coupled with its numerous streams and proximity to the Potomac River, can heighten the risk of flooding during a hurricane. A significant amount of rainfall, as is typical in these storm systems, can result in streams overflowing their banks and contribute to flash flooding. Additionally, hurricane winds can cause power outages and damage homes, trees, and other structures, posing substantial risks to life and property. Over the past 30 years, Wolf Trap has experienced impacts from several major hurricanes and tropical storms, including Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012. Isabel, a Category 2 storm when it made landfall in North Carolina, caused substantial wind damage and power outages in Wolf Trap. Sandy, while not a direct hit, still brought considerable rainfall to the area causing localized flooding. Major flooding events have also occurred independent of hurricanes, such as the notable flash floods in the summer of 2019. These historical events should serve as reminders that residents in Wolf Trap must take all hurricane threats seriously and be prepared for potential impacts.