County: Albemarle
ZIP Codes: 22936, 22911
Hollymead, Virginia, while not located on the Atlantic coastline, is not entirely free of hurricane threats. The primary risk for this region is associated with the aftereffects of a hurricane including high winds and particularly, heavy rainfall which can lead to inland flooding. The town's proximity to the Rivanna River may also increase the risk for potential flooding. Additionally, given Hollymead's relatively low elevation (approximately 427 feet), the town is generally more susceptible to water accumulation, and thus, the risk of flash flooding in the event of a major storm cannot be taken lightly. Looking into the recent history, significant weather events have affected this area including the devastating impacts of Hurricane Camille in 1969 and Hurricane Isabel in 2003, though these events are more than 30 years past. In more recent history, the remnants of Hurricane Matthew in 2016 brought heavy rain to Virginia, causing moderate flooding in some areas. However, Hollymead's inland location tends to lessen the overall impacts felt by these storms compared to coastal areas. Nonetheless, it's important that residents of Hollymead pay close attention to forecasts and potential evacuation notices during hurricane season, and always have a plan to move to higher ground swiftly in the event of heavy rains and potential flooding.