Climate change driving more rains that lead to deadly flash floods, experts say
Summary
Experts say climate change is causing more heavy rains in the US, leading to dangerous flash floods that will become more common and severe. Many areas are not prepared because old infrastructure and building rules do not match the new rain patterns, increasing the risk to people and property.Key Facts
- Climate change is causing heavier rainfall and more frequent flash floods in many US states.
- Recent floods affected places like Texas, Alaska, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania.
- Warmer air and oceans cause more evaporation, putting more water vapor in the air, which fuels storms and heavy rain.
- Flash floods happen especially in hilly areas, cities with lots of concrete, and narrow canyons.
- Many US cities still use very old drainage systems that cannot manage extreme rainfall.
- Building homes and businesses in flood-prone areas continues, despite risks.
- Some places have successfully appealed to federal agencies to change flood risk maps, allowing development in dangerous zones.
- Experts call for stronger rules to prevent building in floodplains and for better investment in infrastructure to handle heavy rains.
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