Thu Sep 19 08:15:00 UTC 2024: ## Cities Are Avoiding Floodplains, But Some States Are Still Building in Harm’s Way

**New research suggests that despite the growing risk of flooding, cities across the US are actually building fewer structures in floodplains than expected.** This is contrary to the prevailing narrative that coastal development is spiraling out of control.

A study published in the journal Earth’s Future analyzed floodplain development between 2001 and 2019 and found that, on average, most towns and cities actively avoid building in flood-prone areas. The study’s authors attribute this trend to “routine municipal practices” like zoning changes and permit denials.

However, the research also reveals a stark contrast. **The vast majority of floodplain construction is concentrated in just two states: Louisiana and Florida.** These states have a significant portion of their available land within floodplains and their economies heavily rely on coastal development.

**This uneven development pattern highlights the need for a more nuanced approach to addressing the issue of flood risk.** While many municipalities are taking steps to avoid building in floodplains, certain areas are exacerbating the problem by continuing to develop in vulnerable zones.

The study’s authors argue that **local solutions tailored to the specific needs of each region are key to mitigating flood risk.** They suggest that state or federal government intervention, such as subsidies for less risky construction or penalties for cities that allow development near water, may be necessary to address the issue in high-risk areas.

**Despite the positive trend of cities actively avoiding floodplains, the study also acknowledges that there are limitations to the current approach.** Flood maps used for regulatory purposes are often outdated and inaccurate, meaning that significant flood damage still occurs outside of designated flood zones.

**This research offers a valuable perspective on the complexities of floodplain development and the need for a more targeted approach to mitigating flood risk.** While some areas are actively avoiding building in vulnerable zones, others require focused intervention to prevent the escalation of flood damages and disaster recovery costs.

Read More