Storm Surge in Virginia, September 6, 1996

The track of Tropical Storm Fran from south-central through western Virginia allowed gusty southeast winds at and just above the surface to channel water up the Chesapeake Bay and its main tributaries. This became a small-scale storm surge, containing 6 foot waves and tides which ran in some places nearly 6 feet above normal. In Alexandria (Fairfax/Arlington Co), water rose to 5 feet deep in the Old Town district, flooding numerous shopts, restaurants, and publs. Fortunately, many shop owners had moved valuable merchandise to higher locations prior to the surge, minimizing property damage.Farther south, the pounding waves and above normal tides caused damage to piers, marinas, and some residences in Prince William, Stafford, and King George Counties. Along the tidal Potomac River, a storm surge of at least 6 feet piled up water in the Occoquan Bay, eventually flooding numerous homes in Occoquan and Woodbridge. In Stafford Co, the surge caused substantial boat and pier damage near Aquia Creek, and a picnic area was flooded at Quantico. Major damage was also sustained in King George Co north of Colonial Beach.