Columbia, Virginia, though inland, is not entirely immune to hurricanes or their remnant impacts. Due to its approximate distance of 120 miles from the Atlantic ocean, the major concerns would be primarily high winds and heavy rainfall rather than storm surge. Being situated near the James River, flooding potential from heavy, sustained rains related to a hurricane is a considerable concern. The town's position within relatively level terrain also poses an increased risk of flooding as water can accumulate more readily compared to hilly areas. Historically, Columbia has not been the direct target of a major hurricane but has felt impacts from major hurricanes passing through Virginia. In 2003, Hurricane Isabel caused widespread power outages and flooding across Virginia, including Columbia. Furthermore, remnants from hurricanes such as Jeanne and Gaston in 2004 also resulted in heavy rainfall and subsequent flooding in the region. Hence, while Columbia's distance from the coast may spare it from the severest hurricane effects such as storm surge, Columbia still has a significant risk of hurricane-derived high winds and flooding.