Today is the 40 year anniversary of the flood of 85 in Roanoke VA
On November 4, 1985, the Roanoke Valley experienced one of the most devastating natural disasters in its history. Known simply as “The Flood of ’85,” the event was triggered by the lingering remnants of Hurricane Juan, a storm that refused to move on. What began as days of steady rain turned into a catastrophe that reshaped the Roanoke region — both physically and emotionally.
The Perfect Storm
After soaking the Gulf Coast, Hurricane Juan drifted north and stalled over the Appalachian Mountains. For Roanoke, the timing couldn’t have been worse. The ground was already saturated from weeks of prior rainfall, leaving nowhere for the additional water to go.
As the storm lingered, up to 15 inches of rain fell across the Roanoke Valley within 48 hours. The Roanoke River — normally a scenic centerpiece of the city — turned into a raging torrent. On the morning of November 4, it crested at a record 23.35 feet, nearly twice its flood stage, overwhelming neighborhoods, roads, and bridges.
Widespread Destruction
Entire communities were cut off as water engulfed downtown Roanoke, Salem, and surrounding areas. Businesses along Franklin Road, Jefferson Street, and the Wasena and Norwich neighborhoods were submerged.
By the time the waters began to recede, the toll was staggering:
- 10 lives lost in the Roanoke area
- Over 3,000 homes and businesses damaged or destroyed
- More than $200 million in damages (in 1985 dollars)
The floodwaters swept away vehicles, bridges, and infrastructure, leaving behind a thick layer of mud and debris that took months to clean up.
Human Courage Amid the Chaos
In the face of disaster, the Roanoke community displayed remarkable courage. Rescue workers, volunteers, and neighbors used boats, tractors, and even improvised rafts to reach those trapped in rising waters. The National Guard was called in to help evacuate residents and deliver supplies to stranded families.
Local churches and schools opened their doors as shelters. Stories emerged of residents forming human chains to pull others to safety, a reminder that even in the darkest hours, the Valley’s strength came from its people.
Lasting Impact on the Roanoke Valley
The Flood of ’85 left scars that would take decades to heal — but it also led to major improvements in flood control and preparedness. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and local governments began reinforcing levees, updating flood maps, and improving emergency response systems.
Memorials and historic markers now honor the victims and first responders who faced that fateful November storm. For longtime residents, the event remains a defining moment — a shared memory of both loss and resilience.
Remembering the Flood of 1985
Nearly four decades later, the Flood of ’85 continues to serve as a reminder of nature’s power and the community’s resolve. Each November, stories resurface from those who lived through it — stories of homes lost, families saved, and a city that refused to give up.
The Roanoke River has long since returned to its gentle flow, but for those who remember, the water will always carry echoes of that historic day when Roanoke stood against the storm.