Moderate Risk Virginia  ·  Tornado / Severe Storm

Chesterfield County VA

EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS & DISASTER RISK PROFILE  ·  LAST UPDATED: Mar 2026

5/ 10
Threat Score
Population
364,049
Area
437
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Tornado / Severe Storm
FEMA Disasters
24
federally declared

Chesterfield County south of Richmond faces moderate disaster risk from severe thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flash flooding. The James and Appomattox Rivers create localized flood risk in low-lying communities. The 2012 derecho caused widespread tree damage and power outages across the county. Its rapid suburban growth south of Richmond continues to expand stormwater management challenges.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Identify an interior room or storm shelter.
  • Monitor NOAA weather alerts continuously.
  • Keep emergency kit accessible at all times.
  • Prepare for sudden power outages.

// Recommended Supplies

Essential gear for power outages, severe weather, and emergency situations in your area.

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 5 / 10    Moderate Risk
Primary Hazard Tornado / Severe Storm
Secondary Hazard Flash Flooding
FEMA Flood Zone Zone X (Low-Moderate Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 24
Last Major Event Derecho (June 2012)
Event Frequency Major event every 6–8 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (804) 748-1362
Emergency Shelters 18 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-95 South, I-295, US-360 West, VA-10 West

// County Profile

County Chesterfield County VA
State Virginia (VA)
Population 364,049
Area 437 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone X (Low-Moderate Risk)

// Other Virginia Counties

// Nearby Infrastructure Risks

Critical infrastructure facilities within or near this area that could affect civilian safety during emergencies, conflict, or infrastructure failures.

North Anna Power Station VA
Nuclear Power Plant  ·  Mineral  ·  Dominion Energy  ·  10-mi risk zone
8/10 High
Transcontinental Gas Pipeline Compressor Stations VA
Chemical Facility  ·  Chesterfield, VA  ·  Williams Companies / Transco  ·  10-mi risk zone
8/10 High
🌊
James River Flood Control VA
Major Dam  ·  Richmond, VA  ·  Richmond Department of Public Works  ·  10-mi risk zone
7/10 High
Dominion Energy Chesterfield Power Station VA
Power Plant  ·  Chester, VA  ·  Dominion Energy  ·  25-mi risk zone
5/10 Moderate

Infrastructure risk data is for emergency preparedness awareness. Facility locations are publicly known. Always follow official emergency guidance.