Flooding: How to Prepare, What to Expect, What to Do

Meteorology Matters explores the devastating consequences of flooding across the globe, highlighting the increasingly frequent and intense events driven by climate change. We examine how different countries are responding to this challenge, focusing on strategies such as building barriers, adapting to flooding, and relocating communities. We look at the World Weather Attribution report that analyzes the recent flooding in Sudan, concluding that human-induced climate change has significantly increased the likelihood of such extreme rainfall events. There’s been a record-breaking number of flash flood emergencies in the US, emphasizing the role of climate change in intensifying heavy rainfall events. The damage inflicted by Tropical Storm Helene on the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, showcases the destructive power of flooding on natural landscapes and infrastructure. Recently severe flooding in Italy and Spain, show the significant human and economic toll these events have taken. We address the unfolding tragedy in Valencia, Spain, highlighting the devastating impact on the country and the ongoing efforts to provide aid and rescue stranded individuals.

30 Okt 202421min

Meteorology Matters discusses the flooding of the Withlacoochee River in Central Florida, which has been at its highest levels since 1960 due to excess rainfall during the rainy season and Hurricane Milton. We explain the river's course, how the flooding has impacted local communities, and the efforts by authorities to help residents. We also address concerns from the public about the causes of the flooding and whether water management structures could be used to alleviate it.

29 Okt 202411min

Meteorology Matters explorers the rising trend of billion-dollar weather disasters in the United States. NOAA provides a comprehensive overview of the events in 2023, highlighting the record number of disasters and the significant financial and human costs. The Washington Post examines the debate surrounding the role of climate change in this trend. While acknowledging the potential influence of global warming, the article emphasizes the significant impact of population growth and development in hazard-prone areas. a complex set of natural factors and human activity is exacerbating the risks associated with extreme weather events

28 Okt 202420min

Urology matters uncovers the history of hurricanes in Florida, particularly focusing on the significant impact of the 1848 Tampa Bay hurricane. There have been many years with multiple major hurricane landfalls in Florida, highlighting the state's vulnerability to these natural disasters. We also look the 2024 and recent hurricane seasons, analyzing the frequency and intensity of storms in relation to climate change, while also acknowledging that hurricanes are a natural part of Florida's coastal environment. The 1848 Tampa Bay hurricane had devastating effects on the region and its lasting impact on the local geography but the population in the area was very small at the time. Additionally, discuss how Florida has always been a hurricane hot spot, but only in the last half century has the population blossomed along the coast to really affect massive numbers of people and damage the more developed infrastructure.

24 Okt 202416min

Meteorology Matters looks into how HAARP and Cloud Seeding did not create or drive Hurricanes Helene and Milton by providing a review of 43 studies published between 2012 and 2021 that examine conspiracy theories related to weather modification and climate change. The review provides insights into the prevalence, characteristics, and potential consequences of weather and climate change conspiracy theories, as well as exploring the science that debunks those theories. We identify knowledge gaps in existing research, emphasizing the need for greater geographic representation, improved conceptualization of the topic, and a more integrative approach that considers multiple factors and processes involved in the interplay between conspiracy theories and weather/climate change.

24 Okt 202418min

Meteorology Matters explores the growing problem of insurance companies failing to adequately cover homeowners after hurricanes in Florida, specifically focusing on issues since a Governor DeSantis supported law change. We highlight the challenges facing homeowners, insurance companies, and policymakers in the wake of increasingly severe weather events. We examine the implications of Florida’s insurance law changes, which are intended to reduce litigation but are further disadvantaging homeowners. Additionally, we talk about the importance of flood insurance and how the lack of adequate coverage is leaving many homeowners financially vulnerable.

24 Okt 202410min

Meteorology Matters examines the increasing vulnerability of low-income communities and communities of color to weather impacts, specifically hurricanes. They highlight how these groups are disproportionately affected by storm surges, flooding, and power outages due to their location in high-risk areas and lack of resources for preparedness and recovery. We discuss the need for better federal disaster relief and recovery policies that prioritize these vulnerable communities, including increased funding, streamlined application processes, and more comprehensive climate resilience measures. We also showcase examples of innovative solutions, like the Hunters Point community in Florida, which is designed to withstand hurricanes with features like solar panels, battery systems, and elevated construction but affordability keeps homes like these out of reach for almost everybody.

23 Okt 20246min

Meteorology Matters breaks down the Federal Emergency Management Agency's (FEMA) "50% rule," a regulation that impacts homeowners in flood-prone areas. This rule states that if a home (structure itself excluding the land) sustains damage exceeding 50% of its market value, it must be brought into compliance with current floodplain management standards, usually by elevating the structure. The rule is designed to discourage rebuilding vulnerable properties in flood zones and prevent the government from bearing the cost of repeated damage. The sources explain the details of the rule, how it is applied, and the debate surrounding its implementation, particularly in Florida, where communities face an ongoing threat of hurricanes and rising sea levels. Homeowners and local officials often find themselves in a difficult position, balancing the need for rebuilding with the financial burden of complying with the rule, which can make it challenging to afford housing in flood-prone areas.

22 Okt 20247min