Virginia Beach's emergency management program centers on hurricane preparedness because hurricanes are recognized as a major threat and the most likely catastrophic event to impact the city. The emphasis on hurricane preparedness is also based upon the assumption that if you are prepared for a hurricane, then you should be prepared for any type of emergency.
The natural and manmade hazards that may occur in Virginia Beach are based upon history, probability of occurrence, and the relative threat to the community. A natural hazard and vulnerability analysis for the City of Virginia Beach is available in the Southside Hampton Roads Hazard Mitigation Plan.