County: Stafford
ZIP Codes: 22554
Located in Stafford County, Aquia Harbour, Virginia, is an inland community which lies approximately 70 miles from the Atlantic coast. While the town is normally sheltered from the initial fury of coastal storm surges associated with hurricanes, it is particularly vulnerable to high-volume rainfall resulting from slow-moving or stalled storm systems and has a history of flash flooding. The fact that much of the community is at a relatively low elevation, particularly along the Aquia Creek, greatly increases the area's susceptibility to flooding. Flooding concerns are further exacerbated during hurricane season due to the potential for simultaneous high tides and storm surges pushing upstream from the Potomac River. Historically, the most notable hurricanes that have impacted Aquia Harbour and the surrounding areas in the last 30 years were Hurricane Isabel in 2003 and Hurricane Floyd in 1999. Both storms caused devastating flooding and extensive damage in the region, with floods from Hurricane Floyd particularly impacting the Aquia Creek area. Further, Hurricane Sandy in 2012 brought significant rainfall and strong winds to the region, leading to downed trees and power outages, despite it being primarily reclassified as a post-tropical cyclone upon impact. Residents are encouraged to have plans in place for potential evacuation routes, flood-proofing their homes, and ensuring they have supplies for the possibility of extended periods without electricity.