Climate change is already making extreme weather events more frequent and more intense, and flooding and storm damage are among the most costly and devastating impacts. Climate change is projected to increase the frequency and severity of floods and storms in the United States.
Heavy rains are becoming more common, and when they fall on already saturated ground, they can lead to flash flooding. Flooding also occurs when rivers overflow their banks, often as a result of prolonged periods of heavy rain. Storm surge, a rise in sea level caused by a hurricane or other severe storm, can lead to coastal flooding.
As the climate continues to warm, sea level rise will make storm surge flooding more frequent and more severe. Flooding will also become more common in inland areas as heavy rains become more frequent.
The damage caused by floods and storms is costly and often devastating. In 2017, hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria caused an estimated $265 billion in damage in the United States. Flooding is the most common natural disaster in the United States, and it is also one of the most costly.
The costs of flooding and storm damage are expected to increase as the climate continues to warm. A study by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration found that the annual cost of flooding in the United States could increase from $6 billion in 2020 to $52 billion by 2050.
There are a number of steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of flooding and storm damage. These include:
-Improving floodplain management
-Restoring and protecting wetlands
-Improving building codes and land-use planning
-Improving warning systems and emergency response plans
-Providing financial assistance for risk reduction measures
-Increasing public awareness of the risks of flooding and storms
https://www.nrdc.org/stories/climate-change-and-flooding
https://www.climate.gov/news-features/understanding-climate/climate-change-and-flooding
https://www.scientificamerican.com/article/climate-change-is-worsening-flooding-in-the-us/