County: Prince William
ZIP Codes: 20111, 20113
Yorkshire, Virginia, despite being approximately 180 miles from the Atlantic Coast, can still be significantly affected by hurricanes and tropical storms. The city's proximity to the coast means that it can be impacted by storm surge, especially if a storm approaches from a southeastern direction where there is less land obstacle. Another risk factor is its average elevation of 325 feet above sea level, making it susceptible to flash flooding and severe rainfall during hurricanes. Historical data shows that Yorkshire, like many parts of northern Virginia, is at a moderate risk for floods during major storm events. Over the past 30 years, several major hurricanes have impacted Yorkshire. Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and Hurricane Sandy in 2012 caused significant rainfall and resulted in flash flooding in the area. Moreover, the remnants of 1996's Hurricane Fran also led to severe flooding in Northern Virginia, affecting places like Yorkshire. These floods serve as a reminder that even though Yorkshire is located inland, it is not immune to the damaging effects of hurricanes. Accordingly, preparedness steps and impact mitigation efforts must be a top priority for communities and individuals alike.