EWJ FEB 59 2025 web - Flipbook - Page 51
Changing weather patterns can also result in more
frequent and severe precipitation events in regions
that had been historically spared. Together, these
factors mean that flooding and storm surges are becoming persistent and increasingly severe challenges
for coastal communities and areas that had been
previously insulated.
l First-aid supplies and necessary medications.
l Important documents (e.g., identification, insurance
policies) sealed in waterproof bags.
l Cash, blankets, and hygiene products.
3. Understand Local Warning Systems
l Familiarize yourself with local flood and storm surge
warning signals, such as sirens, alerts, and emergency
broadcasts.
Impact on Coastal Communities
Flooding and storm surges have devastating impacts
on coastal communities, affecting them physically, economically, and socially. The physical destruction of
floods and storm surges can include widespread property damage, severely affecting homes, businesses, and
critical infrastructure such as roads, bridges, and utilities. This impact can be particularly severe in regions
with unique geographic characteristics (i.e., mountainous areas), areas that have not been historically exposed to flooding, and areas with aging infrastructure.
l Sign up for community alerts and weather notifications through text or apps.
4. Community and Family Readiness
l Stay informed about weather forecasts and potential
threats. Share updates with neighbors, especially those
who may need assistance, such as the elderly or
disabled.
l Conduct regular family meetings to review and
practice your emergency plan.
Coastal flooding, and the resulting damage to
infrastructure/construction, often leads to the displacement of residents, forcing families to evacuate
and leaving many without shelter for extended periods. Economically, the damage to businesses disrupts
local economies, restricts access, halts trade, and imposes significant costs for repairs and recovery efforts.
Residential areas face immense challenges in rebuilding, with many losing not only their homes but also
personal possessions and community.
l Keep vehicles fueled and ready in case of a sudden
evacuation order.
5. Strengthen Your Home and Property
l Install flood barriers, elevate critical utilities, and
secure outdoor items to minimize property damage.
l Clear gutters, drains, and storm grates to ensure
proper water flow.
As each region may experience a storm or flood
differently, following local guidance/ordinances is critical to minimize risk. Additional recommendations for
storm preparedness are available through the Federal
Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) and the
American Red Cross.
The toll on mental and physical health is substantial,
as individuals experience stress, anxiety, and trauma
from losing loved ones, livelihoods, community support systems, and stability. Additionally, exposure to
unsanitary/contaminated floodwaters increases the
risk of waterborne diseases, delayed mitigation can
contribute to microbial growth, and necessary infrastructure systems, such as water treatment facilities, can
be overwhelmed, exacerbating health concerns in affected regions. These compounded impacts underscore the urgent need for resilient infrastructure,
disaster preparedness, and mental health support in
coastal communities.
By implementing these strategies, individuals and
communities can better protect themselves, reducing
the risk posed by flooding and storm surges. Staying
prepared and informed is the best defense against
these natural disasters.
Mitigation Measures and Infrastructure
Proactive mitigation measures, such as sea walls, levees
and barriers, and resilient infrastructure planning
can play a crucial role in managing flood risks and
reducing the devastating impacts of storm surges.
Emergency Preparedness Strategies
Proper preparation can save lives and minimize
damage during floods and storm surges. Here are
essential steps to ensure safety and readiness for
individuals, families, and communities:
Sea Walls and Levees
Sea Walls are engineered barriers constructed along
coastlines to protect against storm surges and high
waves3. These structures reduce the force of incoming
water and reduce the risk of coastal erosion,
safeguarding communities and properties near the
shoreline.
Levees are man-made raised embankments designed
to keep floodwaters from overflowing into inhabited
areas4. Levees are particularly effective along rivers
and low-lying regions, providing a buffer during
periods of heavy rainfall or storm surges.
1. Create an Evacuation Plan
l Identify safe evacuation routes in your area and
ensure all family members are familiar with them.
l Know the location of local shelters and determine
the quickest ways to reach them.
l Plan for pets and livestock, ensuring they can be
safely evacuated as well.
2. Assemble an Emergency Kit
Prepare a kit with essential supplies to sustain your
household for at least 72 hours. Include:
Flood Barriers and Gates
Flood Barriers and gates are dynamic systems
installed in waterways to prevent floodwaters from advancing into urban or residential areas. For example,
the Thames Barrier is one of the world's largest
l Non-perishable food and bottled water.
l Flashlights, extra batteries, and a battery-powered
radio.
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