Resilience V/s. Nature

 

In an ever-changing world, the pursuit of resilience becomes increasingly crucial as society confronts mounting environmental hazards and economic pressures. Amidst these challenges, one recurring nightmare haunts countless individuals and families worldwide: floods. The devastating force of floodwaters transforms homes into ruins, inflicting irreversible damage and leaving communities devastated in their wake.

If you or your loved ones have experienced the harrowing consequences of flooding, you are acutely aware of the profound impact it can have. In this article, let us explore the intricate relationship between nature and economic stewardship, with a particular emphasis on preventing failures caused by floods.

The objective of this exploration is to delve into effective strategies that enhance resilience against floods and mitigate their devastating effects. By addressing the multifaceted challenges faced by flood victims, we aim to uncover proactive measures that can minimize the impact of floods. Through this examination, we shed light on the urgent need for preventive actions and overcoming the hurdles encountered by affected communities.

The intricate relationship between “Mother Nature” and economic challenges lays the foundation for a critical examination of flood impact failures. To delve deeper into this matter, it becomes paramount to comprehend the dynamics between natural forces and economic factors.

A flood occurs when the flow of a stream exceeds its natural or artificial banks. Heavy rainfall, snowmelt, tropical cyclones, or tsunamis in coastal areas are among the factors that can trigger floods. It is crucial to recognize that floods can result in severe consequences for both the environment and human lives.

Floods can be broadly categorized into two types: flash floods and river floods, as classified by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Flash floods occur when intense rainfall rapidly increases water levels in streams or dry channels. These types of floods are more prevalent in arid regions with rocky terrain, and urban areas characterized by impermeable surfaces that hinder rainwater absorption.

In contrast, river flooding is more prevalent in wetter regions characterized by larger rivers. It occurs gradually as a result of prolonged rainstorms or melting snow, leading to a widespread rise in water levels. Additionally, floods can be triggered by ice jams or high tides, although most floods are associated with some form of a storm.

Why do floods and flash floods occur so frequently in the 20th and 21st centuries, despite the expectation that they should be rare events, happening once in 100 or 500 years? Surprisingly, floods have consistently emerged as the leading natural disaster in terms of lives lost and property damage throughout the 20th century, according to the USGS report.

Underlining the urgency of the situation, a recent report by CBS News (July 6, 2023) reveals that what was once known as a ‘100-year storm‘ can now occur as frequently as every 11 years, leaving homeowners to bear the consequences. This evidence highlights the undeniable threat that floods pose, demanding our immediate attention.

It is crucial to recognize that human activities play a significant role in the occurrence and severity of floods or flash floods. These events have a substantial impact on the environment and ecosystems, posing potential risks to human lives and infrastructure.

Recent flooding incidents around the world have brought to light the widespread impact and devastation caused by these natural disasters. Countries such as Spain, Chile, China, Italy, India, Pakistan, Japan, the United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK), and many others have witnessed the destructive consequences of flooding.

Flooding in the US has proven to be more fatal and damaging compared to tornadoes, hurricanes, or lightning, as reported by National Geographic. Recent studies and reports have brought attention to the hidden flood risks posed by intensifying rains across the country, with storms dumping larger amounts of water than previously estimated. According to July 3, 2023, the report from Yahoo News, projections indicate, that nearly 650,000 US properties will face the threat of flooding by 2050.

As we observe the aftermath of these events, it prompts us to reflect on our encounters with floods. Have you or your neighbors experienced flood events in your lifetime? If so, how did these floods impact your homes and belongings? What immediate challenges did you face during the floods, and did evacuation become necessary? What types of losses did you and your neighbors endure? Did the floods cause significant damage to buildings, infrastructure, and possessions in your area? Were there economic repercussions, such as job losses and economic downturns, resulting from flood-related damages? How did floodwater contamination affect the health and water resources of you and your neighbors? Moreover, what were the short and long-term psychological effects on you and your community in the aftermath of the floods? How has your community navigated the emotional challenges?

Floods have undeniably emerged as recurring natural disasters throughout human history. However, the rapid and extensive urbanization witnessed in recent times, coupled with insufficient flood impact studies and inadequate design plans, has heightened the vulnerability of cities to the detrimental effects of flash floods. These urban floods inflict a range of damages, including the tragic loss of human life.

As we confront these natural hazards, it is natural for us to ponder and question the causes of flooding in urban areas and the occurrence of flash floods in cities. Understanding the contributing factors and causes of floods is crucial in developing effective strategies to mitigate their impact.

Many of us have witnessed the overwhelming power and devastation caused by floods, either through television news or personal experience. The force of water engulfing streets, homes, and lives is a firsthand reality for most of us.

Have you ever considered the consequences of recent flooding? Do you believe that the inundation of urban areas and cities worldwide is primarily a result of human actions or a natural hazard beyond human control?

Floods, known as one of nature’s most destructive forces, have had a lasting impact on human history. Communities throughout different eras have grappled with the overwhelming power and catastrophic aftermath of flooding. From ancient civilizations constructing intricate flood defense systems to present-day cities confronting escalating challenges posed by climate change, floods have profoundly influenced human progress.

Whether you have personally experienced flooding or witnessed its consequences in your community, the profound effects of floods leave a lasting impact on everyone. As we delve into the phenomenon of floods and explore their influence on various regions worldwide, the aim is to shed light on the experiences of individuals and communities affected by this natural disaster, providing a comprehensive understanding of its impact.

Floods have long been recognized as one of the most formidable natural forces in human history. It is interesting to note that in civilizations like ancient Egypt, floods were even regarded as a blessing. The annual overflow of the Nile River played a crucial role in enriching agricultural soil and providing a vital transportation route for one of the earliest great civilizations on Earth.

The adaptations and innovations of ancient civilizations living along the Nile Riverbanks were remarkable. They developed expertise in agriculture, boat-building, and navigation to navigate the challenges posed by the river’s yearly flooding. The Nile’s annual overflow not only enriched agricultural soil but also facilitated advanced farming techniques that sustained communities along its banks.

Moreover, the river’s navigable waters enabled transportation and trade, leading to advancements in boat and shipbuilding. Historical records suggest that the Nile’s waterways were even used for transporting stone blocks to construct the pyramids.

Given the historical adaptations and innovations of ancient civilizations, one would expect that in our modern era, we could leverage our expertise to better understand and mitigate the risks posed by annual flooding. However, various factors may hinder the development of suitable design plans and methods, such as a lack of awareness, insufficient resources, or a failure to prioritize the preservation of cultural heritage and natural ecosystems.

Throughout human history, it is widely recognized that nature serves as the primary provider of our fundamental necessities, including food, water, and clean air. Acknowledging nature as our benevolent provider, it becomes imperative for us to adapt to its challenges and foster the development of new skills and technologies to mitigate its impacts.

Are we not entrusted with the role of stewards for Mother Nature? As stewards, we bear the responsibility to prevent and mitigate the impacts of preventable flood failures. Yet, these failures persist, raising questions about human ignorance or negligence in fulfilling our duties. Can we anticipate and prevent flood-related failures under foreseeable circumstances? These questions compel us to scrutinize our responsibility and seek effective solutions.

When we neglect our duties as responsible stewards and disregard existing laws and regulations, Mother Nature can unleash merciless disasters like floods and flash floods. The consequences of flooding are well-documented, such as loss of human life, property damage, destruction of crops and livestock, and the worsening of waterborne diseases that afflict human health.

To honor the mercy of Mother Nature, it is crucial that we adapt and innovate by developing new skills and technologies to mitigate the impacts of flooding. As stewards of Nature, we must reflect on why preventable flood impacts persist as prevalent failures among humanity. This introspection leads us to question whether it is due to human ignorance or negligence and whether we can prevent these failures in foreseeable circumstances. These inquiries compel us to scrutinize our responsibility and strive for effective solutions.

According to the USGS, floods ranked as the leading natural disaster in terms of lives lost and property damage in the United States during the 20th century. These destructive events can occur at any time, in any part of the country, and during any hour of the day or night. Most lives are tragically lost when individuals are swept away by flood currents, while property damage arises from the inundation of sediment-laden water.

When natural disasters such as flooding occur, we contemplate the role of human selfishness and greed, which may lead to cutting corners without thorough flood impact studies and proper design plans. The construction of commercial and residential structures in low-lying areas, along with damage to the natural landscape, can amplify the impact of heavy snow/ice melt and rainy seasons.

News reports have highlighted instances where commercial and residential buildings were constructed on old natural lake beds or water reservoir areas due to urban development demands in suburban areas near large cities. As heavy flooding occurs, blame games emerge among residents, local officials, and contractors, highlighting the consequences of poor land use decisions.

Floods are widely recognized as the costliest natural hazard events in terms of lives and property losses. The financial costs of flood disasters are also unsustainable, often placing the burden on national governments. However, state and local governments possess significant influence over land use and economic policies, making them pivotal in mitigating substantial losses.

Online research conducted during the writing of this article revealed a significant number of searches related to floods on Google. In less than 69 seconds, over 3 billion people searched for the word ‘Flood,’ and in less than 88 seconds, over 2 billion people searched for the word ‘Floods.’ These numbers suggest a widespread concern about and impact of floods on communities.

According to studies by the United States National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)/National Weather Service, urban areas have the highest density of flash flood events, averaging 3.0 events per 1000 square miles per year over an 11-year period, while rural areas experienced 1.6 events per 1000 square miles per year.

Voice of America (VOA), the largest U.S. international broadcaster, reported that nearly one-fourth of the world’s population is at risk of floods.

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) states that flood damages have been exponentially increasing due to rising frequencies of heavy precipitation, changes in land use upstream, and the concentration of population and assets in flood-prone areas. Inadequate flood planning and management practices exacerbate these issues.

In line with these concerns, a global group of experts launched a new commission at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, to research the economics of water and advise policymakers on water management, as reported by Reuters.

Urban professional planners, civil engineers, geologists, hydrogeologists, and environmental scientists widely agree that flood impact studies and design plans are essential for construction in urban and suburban areas. Inadequate flood planning and management practices can have severe impacts on both humans and the environment.

Reports indicated that global losses due to floods reached $82 billion in 2021. CNBC reports that flood losses to insured property are increasing drastically, and only a small fraction of the damage caused by floods is insured.

The impacts of recent events like Hurricane Ian serve as a reminder of the staggering costs involved. With damages estimated to be between $25 billion and $40 billion in Florida, much of which is not fully protected by insurance, it is clear that the need for comprehensive flood impact studies and appropriate design plans is crucial.

In the United States (US), the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) was established by Congress in 1968 to protect lives and property and reduce the financial burden of providing disaster assistance. Administered by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), participating communities agree to regulate floodplain development based on certain criteria and standards.

FEMA, in collaboration with participating states, produces flood maps known as the Federal Flood Risk Management Standard (FFRMS) to guide responsible floodplain management. Property owners in participating communities are eligible to purchase federal flood insurance for their buildings and contents.

FEMA’s flood maps designate different flood zones based on varying levels of flood risk. These zones provide valuable information for floodplain management and include designations such as Zone A representing the 100-year floodplain, Zone AE providing base flood elevations, and Zones B, C, and X representing lower-risk areas.

However, given recent unpredictable natural hazards and disasters, questions arise as to whether the current delineations of 100-year and 500-year floodplains adequately reflect the true flood hazard areas in the 21st century.

Despite advancements in flood science and federal hazard-reduction policies, damages from flooding continue to escalate due to the concentration of people and property along floodplain areas. Inadequate flood planning and management practices contribute to these issues, affecting both humans and the environment.

Flooding has a range of impacts on humans, including deaths, drinking water contamination, power outages, and property loss. Environmental impacts include polluted floodwater, destruction of wildlife habitats, damage to crops, and plant inundation. The frequency and severity of floods are predicted to increase.

Recent news media reports have extensively covered the global havoc caused by deadly floods, highlighting the urgency of addressing flood-related challenges.

To resolve flooding and flash flood problems in cities and urban areas, multifaceted solutions are required. Floodplain compliance requirements should be integrated into urban economic development design and construction plans. Environmental and flood impact studies should be conducted before any construction takes place. Strict regulations on development in flood-prone areas are necessary to protect lives, reduce future flood losses, and save tax dollars.

In conclusion, the battle for resilience against flood impact failures is a pressing issue that demands our attention. Recent flooding incidents worldwide have underscored the widespread impact and devastation caused by these natural disasters. The consequences of floods, from loss of life and property damage to environmental and economic repercussions, are significant and far-reaching.

It is clear that floods are not solely natural hazards beyond human control. Human actions and decisions play a significant role in exacerbating the impacts of floods. Inadequate flood planning and management practices, along with the disregard for proper design plans and flood impact studies, contribute to the recurring failures in mitigating flood-related damages.

Efforts have been made to address these challenges, such as the NFIP and FEMA’s flood maps, but there is a need for continuous improvement and stricter enforcement of regulations to protect people, property, and the environment.

As we move forward, it is crucial to prioritize flood impact studies, proper design plans, and comprehensive floodplain management in urban and suburban areas. By investing in resilient infrastructure, implementing sustainable land-use policies, and fostering community awareness and preparedness, we can better mitigate the impacts of floods and enhance our resilience to these natural disasters.

It is time for a collective effort to fulfill our role as stewards of Mother Nature. We must prioritize the preservation of natural ecosystems, regulate development in flood-prone areas, and adapt to the challenges posed by floods. By doing so, we can reduce future flood losses, save lives, and build a more resilient future for ourselves and future generations.

In conclusion, the battle for resilience against flood impact failures requires a proactive and comprehensive approach. Let us embrace the responsibility of stewardship and work towards effective solutions that protect lives, safeguard property, and preserve our natural environment in the face of floods.

Author’s Qualifications

 Name: Benjamin Mark

 Summary: Benjamin Mark is a licensed Professional Geologist (PG) and Project Management Professional (PMP) with a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Geology, as well as a Master of Business Administration (MBA). With over 25 years of global experience in the environmental consulting industry, he specializes in hydrogeology and project management.

 Authority: Benjamin Mark is widely recognized as an esteemed expert in the field of environmental consulting. His extensive knowledge, evidence-based approach, and practical experience have established him as a trusted authority. Benjamin has contributed to the environmental industry through consulting services and published research articles, further solidifying his credibility.

 Affiliation: Benjamin Mark currently provides consulting services to federal agencies in the United States, focusing on projects governed by the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). His expertise is instrumental in guiding the preparation of Environmental Assessments (EAs), and Environmental Impact Statements (EISs) for projects with significant potential environmental impacts.