Fair Lakes, Virginia, while approximately 110 miles from the nearest coastline, is at a risk for significant weather impacts from hurricanes, primarily in the form of flooding and wind damage. Given its relatively low elevation, approximately 350 feet above sea level, and numerous bodies of water in the immediate surrounding area, even a Category 1 hurricane could pose a considerable flood risk to this community. Moreover, hurricane-related wind speeds can cause extensive property damage to landscaping and structures, especially due to falling trees in this heavily wooded area. Power outages are also a considerable threat during severe weather events, potentially leaving residents without electricity or climate control for days to even weeks at a time.

Historically, Fair Lakes experienced significant impacts from Hurricane Fran in 1996 and Hurricane Isabelle in 2003, respectively. Both storms brought heavy rainfall causing widespread flooding, and high winds resulted in considerable debris and property damage. More recently, in 2012, Hurricane Sandy also brought extreme weather conditions to the region, including heavy rain and high wind speeds, causing power outages and minor flooding. Often, direct estimates of property damage are difficult to quantify due to the combined effects of wind, water and electrical outages. However, these events serve as stark reminders of the potential damage hurricanes can and have inflicted on Fair Lakes, and must be taken into account when preparing for such storms in the future.