As coastal regions continue to experience the effects of climate change, flooding has become an increasingly common occurrence. In the United States alone, there have been 16 major flooding events since 2010, with the most recent taking place in Hurricane Florence in 2018.
While there is no one-size-fits-all solution to dealing with storm surge and coastal flooding, there are a number of steps that communities can take to mitigate the effects.
One of the most effective ways to reduce the impact of flooding is to create or maintain natural buffers such as wetlands, dunes, and vegetation. These buffers can help to absorb the energy of incoming waves and reduce the amount of water that reaches shore.
In addition, communities can also take measures to improve their drainage systems and make sure that they are able to handle the increased volume of water that comes with flooding. This can include installing larger culverts and pipes, as well as making sure that catch basins are clear of debris.
Finally, it is important for communities to have a plan in place for how to respond to flooding. This plan should include evacuations routes and procedures, as well as where to shelter people and animals.
By taking these steps, communities can help to reduce the damage caused by storm surge and coastal flooding.
Sources:
https://www.nrdc.org/stories/how-to-protect-your-community-flooding