McDowell, Virginia, poses a somewhat moderate risk for hurricane threats due to its geographical distance from the coast. While the decreased threat from storm surges and high-speed coastal winds is a benefit of being considerably inland, McDowell is not immune to the effects of hurricanes. The potential for heavy rainfall associated with these storms could drastically increase flood risks, negatively impacting local infrastructure, homes, and farmland. McDowell's elevation also presents a challenge, as any low pressure system traveling inland could drop a significant amount of precipitation, potentially leading to landslides and damaging floods. Looking at meteorological history, McDowell and surrounding Highland County experienced substantial impacts from Hurricane Fran in 1996, where the region received up to 6 inches of rainfall, leading to flooding in several areas. More recently, in 2018, the remnants of Hurricane Florence brought heavy rains, high winds, and the threat of flash flooding to the area. Although hurricanes may not strike McDowell directly, the town's location and elevation combined with heavy rainfall from weakening storm systems are main factors contributing to the historical flood risk and other hurricane-induced impacts. As such, the town's adequate preparation for such events, from flood defenses to emergency evacuation procedures, is of utmost importance.