Chincoteague, Virginia is located on Chincoteague Island off the Atlantic coast, signaling a heightened vulnerability to hurricane threats including flooding, storm surge, and intense winds. The town is at a low elevation and mostly flat which enhances its risk for flooding, particularly during high tides or rain-heavy storms. Chincoteague resides in Accomack County, a region classified with a high risk of hurricane-induced storm surge; therefore, hurricanes can potentially cause extensive inundation of the town. Factors such as beach erosion, which can exacerbate storm surge, and damage to infrastructure and the local economy are other potential impacts. Evacuation plans could be complicated due to the island's geographic isolation and the limited roadways leading out of the town. Historically, Chincoteague has been significantly impacted by several major hurricanes and floods, with Hurricane Sandy in 2012 causing extensive damage. There were serious storm surges and Chincoteague's iconic wild ponies were relocated in preparation for the storm. Hurricane Isabel in 2003 also brought damaging winds and storm surge to the area. In addition to these hurricanes, nor’easters – powerful storms that typically affect the northeast coastline – have also resulted in severe flooding in Chincoteague’s history. Flooding from these storm events can linger for days, especially when compounded by high tide, leading to prolonged effects on the town and its residents. Infrastructural resiliency and a strong emergency management plan are crucial for Chincoteague due to these inherent risks.