Natural Disaster Risk — ZIP Code 23834

Natural Hazard Profile: ZIP 23834, Virginia

ZIP 23834 in Colonial Heights sits along the mid-Atlantic coast. Its humid subtropical climate produces hot, humid summers and four distinct seasons, and notably hurricane and nor'easter exposure. These conditions define the natural disaster environment for households across this ZIP code.

According to FEMA's National Risk Index, ZIP 23834 carries an overall risk score of 6.8/10, placing it in the high category. Coastal flooding is the dominant hazard, with storm surge from tropical systems and nor'easters capable of inundating low-lying shoreline areas well above normal tidal levels. The area also faces notable exposure to earthquake and hurricane.

Within Virginia, ZIP 23834'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 Virginia 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, ZIP 23834 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.