Three signs that flooding is getting worse, and how it hurts us
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Major storms
Nine of the top 10 years for extreme one-day precipitation events have occurred since 1996:
(1996, 2015, 1998, 2017, 2010, 2007, 2008, 2018, 2005, 1914)
More volume
Precipitation in the contiguous 48 states has increased at a rate of 0.20 inches per decade.
Higher temperatures
Since 1896, average winter temperatures across the contiguous 48 states have increased by nearly 3°F. Spring temperatures have increased by about 2°F, while summer and fall temperatures have increased by about 1.5°F. As average temperatures rise, more evaporation occurs, which increases overall precipitation and the risks of flooding. The increased precipitation will not necessarily increase the amount of water available for drinking, irrigation and industry.
The impact
The potential harms from heavy precipitation include crop damage, soil erosion and an increase in flood risk. Runoff from precipitation can also impair water quality as pollutants on land wash into water bodies. Flooding damages personal and public property, puts lives and safety at risk, and increases infrastructure repair and replacement costs.
The combination of global warming and aging, insufficient infrastructure is leading to an increase in urban flooding that shuts down expressways, destroys property and impacts personal health. Use the buttons below to learn more and see why urban flooding should remain on your radar.
Source: National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration. Photos and videos from Getty Images.
1. Major storms
2. More precipitation
3. Higher temperatures
The impact
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