Although many people don’t think of Virginia as a state that gets hit with severe weather, its location in the center of the Eastern seaboard makes it particularly susceptible to a wide range of potentially catastrophic events.
In 2018, Norfolk and Virginia Beach were identified as two of the top cities vulnerable to hurricane strikes by Weather.com. The area is threatened by a sinking coastline and rising sea levels. The
Chesapeake Bay is second only to New Orleans in risk from increasing sea levels.
Residents that live below the 100-year flood level in the coastal area are particularly prone to flooding from storm surge. It would cost approximately $90.9 billion to reconstruct the homes in eastern Virginia that are in these low-lying areas.
But it’s not just the ocean that poses a threat to Virginia’s coastline. Heavy rains can produce flooding that damages homes, as evidenced by the storms in September 2016. Hurricanes can turn toward the land, bringing powerful winds and stormy weather inland. In 2011, Hurricane Irene pounded Virginia with more than 10 inches of rain in a matter of days.
Tornadoes are also a potential hazard to Virginia residents. They can strike anywhere in the country in any season. In 1982, Virginia saw only one tornado. However, in 2004, 84 tornadoes struck the region.
People who live at higher elevations may be at a higher risk of having their homes damaged by tornadoes. Roof, window and tree damage commonly contribute to tornado reconstruction costs.
The Virginia landscape is extremely varied, with the ocean to the east and mountains to the west. Areas such as Burkes Garden might see up to almost 53 inches of snowfall per year. The Piedmont area can get covered with up to 16 inches of snow every year, whereas coastal Virginia only receives up to 8 inches.
If homeowners in these areas are unprepared, they may end up dealing with leaks, frozen pipes and falls from treacherous ice.
Even when residents safeguard their homes against inclement weather, they may be prone to burglaries and other property crimes. Based on FBI data, researchers deemed Portsmouth, Danville and Emporia as three of the most dangerous cities in Virginia in 2019.
It may be difficult for people in flood zones, low-lying coastal areas, mountainous regions and dangerous cities Virginia to purchase affordable homeowner’s insurance. FAIR Plans have made it possible for these individuals to get coverage. Residents are encouraged to seek quotes in the private market for alternatives to the FAIR Plan.