Smithfield, Virginia, although located approximately 30 miles inland, is not immune to the threats posed by hurricanes and tropical systems. The town's location near the Pagan River and within the Hampton Roads region subjects it to storm surge, wind damage, and flooding risks. It may experience heavy wind and rain damage from hurricanes moving up the coast, particularly if the storm takes a path over the Chesapeake Bay. Its elevation is relatively low, contributing to a higher potential for flooding even from lesser storm systems. Over the last 30 years, several notable storms have impacted Smithfield. Hurricanes like Floyd in 1999 and Isabel in 2003 brought devastating floods and wind damage to the area. Hurricane Matthew in 2016 also resulted in significant flooding in Smithfield and the broader Hampton Roads area. With the increasing trend of powerful storms and given the town's proximity to the coast and low-lying topography, Smithfield's residents must maintain vigilance against the significant threat posed by hurricanes.