County: Gloucester
ZIP Codes: 23062, 23072, 23018, 23131, 23184
Gloucester Point, Virginia, due to its close proximity to Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean, is vulnerable to several impacts from hurricanes including storm surge, high wind speeds, heavy rainfall, and potential flooding. Its low-lying topography, with a maximum elevation of roughly 30 feet, exacerbates flood risk from torrential downpours and storm surges. Therefore, properties in this area especially those near the water are at an increased risk. Power outages from strong winds could also be expected, which can disrupt normal day-to-day operations for businesses and residents. Analyzing the last 30 years reveals Virginia has been hit by several significant hurricanes including: Hurricane Isabel in 2003, Hurricane Irene in 2011, and Hurricane Matthew in 2016. These storms particularly impacted Gloucester Point with their damaging winds and heavy rainfall, causing immense property damage and widespread power outages. Other potential impacts from these storms included blocked transportation routes, downed trees, and loss of life. It is crucial for Gloucester Point to maintain up-to-date emergency procedures and evacuation routes as history suggests a strong likelihood of future hurricane impacts.