High Risk Virginia  ·  Hurricane / Storm Surge

Norfolk VA

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

8/ 10
Threat Score
Population
238,005
Area
96
sq miles
Primary Hazard
Hurricane / Storm Surge
FEMA Disasters
50
federally declared

Norfolk is one of the most flood-vulnerable cities in the United States. The city is sinking while sea levels rise, creating a compounding threat that already floods streets during routine high tides — not just storms. Naval Station Norfolk, the world's largest naval base, adds critical defense infrastructure concerns. Isabel caused catastrophic flooding in 2003, and routine tidal flooding now affects neighborhoods that never flooded a generation ago.

// Preparedness Recommendations

  • Evacuation routes inland should be identified in advance.
  • Store at least 72 hours of food and water.
  • Elevate critical belongings above flood level.
  • Have backup power ready in case of grid failure.

// Recommended Supplies

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

// Risk Intelligence

Threat Score 8 / 10    High Risk
Primary Hazard Hurricane / Storm Surge
Secondary Hazard Sea Level Rise
FEMA Flood Zone Zone AE (High Risk)
Federally Declared Disasters 50
Last Major Event Hurricane Isabel (2003)
Event Frequency Major event every 4–5 years

// Emergency Operations

Emergency Mgmt Phone (757) 664-6500
Emergency Shelters 24 designated facilities
Evacuation Routes I-64 West, US-460 West, US-13 North, VA-168 South

// County Profile

County Norfolk VA
State Virginia (VA)
Population 238,005
Area 96 sq miles
FEMA Region Zone AE (High Risk)

// Major Cities

Norfolk VA

// Cities in This County

// 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.

Naval Station Norfolk VA
Port / Marine Terminal  ·  Norfolk  ·  US Navy  ·  25-mi risk zone
9/10 Critical
Norfolk Naval Station VA
Port / Marine Terminal  ·  Norfolk, VA  ·  US Navy  ·  10-mi risk zone
9/10 Critical
Langley Air Force Base VA
Military Installation  ·  Hampton  ·  US Air Force / Air Combat Command  ·  25-mi risk zone
8/10 High
Port of Virginia Hampton Roads VA
Port / Marine Terminal  ·  Norfolk, VA  ·  Virginia Port Authority  ·  5-mi risk zone
8/10 High
Surry Power Station VA
Nuclear Power Plant  ·  Surry  ·  Dominion Energy  ·  10-mi risk zone
7/10 High
Port of Norfolk VA
Port / Marine Terminal  ·  Norfolk, VA  ·  Virginia Port Authority  ·  10-mi risk zone
7/10 High
🏥
Sentara Norfolk General Hospital VA
Major Hospital  ·  Norfolk, VA  ·  Sentara Healthcare  ·  25-mi risk zone
7/10 High

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