Wakefield, Virginia, while a bit inland, is still susceptible to the impacts of hurricanes, primarily due to its relatively flat elevation and proximity to major water bodies. Hurricane-related risks primarily include flooding brought on by heavy rainfall and storm surges, and strong winds causing building, vegetation, and infrastructure damages. Wakefield sits at a relatively low elevation, meaning that even minor sea-level rises or increases in rainfall could result in potential flooding. Its location also puts it in a position where it could be significantly impacted by heavy rains from slow-moving or stalling tropical systems. Historically, Wakefield has had to contend with several significant storm events. In 2003, Hurricane Isabel caused extensive damage to the southeast Virginia region, including Wakefield. In 2011, Hurricane Irene also had a significant impact on the region. Wakefield was significantly impacted by flooding from the remnants of Tropical Storm Julia in 2016. Notably, in 2018, Hurricane Florence brought heavy rain and wind-related impacts to the region, leading to significant flooding. Therefore, while the city is somewhat sheltered from the direct hit of coastal storms by its location, it is in an area that is often subjected to hurricanes and tropical storm remnants, leading to considerable flood risk. This history also implies potential for increased future vulnerability to hurricanes, particularly as climate change continues to influence storm intensity and patterns.