Natural Disaster Risk in Chesterfield

Natural Hazard Profile: Chesterfield, Virginia

Chesterfield, in Chesterfield County, is a city of approximately 41,442 residents situated along the mid-Atlantic coast. Its humid subtropical climate brings hot, humid summers and four distinct seasons, and in particular hurricane and nor'easter exposure. These conditions collectively define the natural hazard environment that Chesterfield residents and property owners must navigate.

Chesterfield's overall natural disaster risk is rated 6.8/10 (High) by FEMA's National Risk Index. The risk of coastal inundation tops the local hazard profile, with the area exposed to storm surge, tidal flooding, and wave action during major coastal storm events. Secondary hazards include earthquake and hurricane.

Within Virginia, Chesterfield's risk is, considerably above the 5.1/10 state average. Nationally, it ranks well above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. FEMA's analysis of Chesterfield County identifies coastal flood as the foremost hazard, followed by earthquake and hurricane. These rankings reflect the relative frequency and severity of each hazard type in the local environment.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Chesterfield residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for coastal flood and secondary hazards, registering for emergency alerts, and maintaining a household emergency kit are practical steps that can significantly reduce impact during a major event.