Catastrophic flooding caused immense damage to the Roanoke area and the rest of Southwest Virginia on November 4, 1985. This week marks the 40th anniversary of the event.
After many storms throughout the week had saturated the ground, a final surge from Hurricane Juan overtook Roanoke in what was the largest flooding event in its history. Because the soil was already so saturated, a large storm was the tipping point for the area. The Roanoke government website reports that Roanoke received 6.61 inches of rain in just 24 hours. It was also reported that the Roanoke River reached a height of 23.55 feet, which is 13 feet above the calculated “flood stage”, according to WDBJ7 News.
The city of Roanoke has compiled an interactive map consisting of video stories from those affected by the flood, as well as pictures and articles from tragic events that occurred. Citizens speak of their experience witnessing the flood occur, escaping from buildings, and rebuilding what they had lost.
In addition to the interactive map, Roanoke Valley Television has also paid tribute to the flood. The company has made a video series to remember the event and honor those who helped the community recover.
Remembering this tragic flood helps bring light to the severity of environmental issues and the importance of disaster preparedness as they become more frequent.
Roanoke has already undergone flood mitigation to prepare for the chance that this happens again. As hurricanes become more frequent due to rising sea temperatures, it is crucial that stormwater management is running at its full potential.
Faster communication due to technological development and improved weather accuracy also ensures that in case of a similar disaster, the Roanoke area will be more prepared.
Madeline Wall
Staff Reporter
