County: Fairfax
ZIP Codes: 20171, 20196
Floris, Virginia, is inland and its distance from the coast decreases its risk of direct impacts from hurricane-force winds and storm surge tides compared to coastal communities. However, it is still subject to the effects of heavy rainfall, flooding, strong winds, and tornadoes associated with tropical cyclones. The town's elevation is relatively low, ranging mostly between 200 and 300 feet. Floris is located in a region where significant rainfall often occurs, and given its topography, it's prone to flooding, especially during hurricanes. Furthermore, hurricanes can cause widespread power outages and damaged infrastructure, leading to disruptions in utility services, communications, and transportation. In terms of historical major hurricane and flood events, Floris and its surrounding region were impacted by Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and Hurricane Fran in 1996 as they tracked inland from the coast. Both of these hurricanes brought damaging winds and heavy rainfall which led to widespread flooding and property damage. Additionally, Tropical Storm Lee in 2011 led to significant rainfall in the area, thereby causing substantial flooding. Future impacts could be similar or even more intense given the potential influence of climate change on the strength and frequency of tropical cyclones. Residents must be adequately prepared for such events, which could also cause disruptions to essential services and local economy.