Natural Disaster Risk in Doswell

Natural Hazard Profile: Doswell, Virginia

Doswell is a small community of about 1,381 in Hanover County, along the mid-Atlantic coast. The area experiences hot, humid summers and four distinct seasons, with hurricane and nor'easter exposure shaping the pattern of natural hazards that residents encounter. Understanding the local risk profile is essential for anyone living in, moving to, or owning property in Doswell.

FEMA rates Doswell's composite natural disaster risk at 6.0 out of 10 — high risk. The area faces significant drought exposure, where below-average precipitation over extended periods strains water resources and drives secondary hazards like wildfire and crop failure. Residents should also account for coastal flood and earthquake risk in their preparedness planning.

Doswell's risk score, slightly above the 5.1/10 state average and above the U.S. national average of 4.5/10. Of the 18 hazard categories tracked by FEMA for Hanover County, the highest-scoring are drought, coastal flood, and earthquake. These scores reflect county-level data and represent the baseline risk that all communities in the county share.

With a high natural disaster risk rating, Doswell residents benefit from taking preparedness seriously. Reviewing insurance coverage for drought 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.