EWJ FEB 59 2025 web - Flipbook - Page 52
moveable flood barriers that protects London from
flooding and storm surges5.
1. Initial Clean-Up and Safety Measures
Before returning to your property, ensure it has been
deemed safe by local authorities. Be cautious of structural damage, contaminated water, and downed power
lines. Document the damage thoroughly by taking photos and videos for insurance claims and assistance applications. When safe, begin the cleanup process by
clearing floodwater, debris, and damaged items to reduce the risk of mold growth and other health hazards.
Sanitize surfaces exposed to floodwaters to minimize
the risk of illness, and engage licensed professionals to
mitigate potentially hazardous conditions, and repair
utilities such as power, water, and sanitation systems.
There are also temporary flood barriers, like the
AquaFence, which can be deployed before a hurricane
or other catastrophic storm to help mitigate the risk
of flood waters inundating properties.
Elevated Infrastructure and Buildings
Communities in flood-prone areas can reduce
damage by elevating homes, businesses, and utilities
above anticipated flood levels. Modern construction
requires that many new structures be constructed
above the anticipated flood plain, however, these requirements are not retroactively applied to existing
structures. A review of Flood Maps produced by
FEMA can provide additional information for your
property.
2. Rebuilding Homes and Infrastructure
Engage structural engineers or contractors to assess
the integrity of buildings and infrastructure. Reconstruct using flood-resistant materials and consider elevating buildings to reduce future risks. An engineer
or contractor familiar with building codes in your area
can be a valuable resource for building code requirements that may have been triggered by the damage.
For example, following Hurricane Katrina, new building codes were implemented, so the repair of damage
of a particular severity would require raising the elevation of homes, commonly achieved by supporting
structures on deep foundation systems, and enhancing pump systems to manage water more effectively.
3. Financial Assistance and Government Aid
Understand your options and, where appropriate,
seek financial support from federal, state, or local government disaster relief programs. Examples include
FEMA assistance, disaster loans, or grants for individuals and businesses. File claims with flood insurance
providers to recover property and personal losses. Utilize and assist, if able, community support programs
offered by non-profits and charity organizations for financial aid, temporary housing, or essential supplies.
Coastal Wetlands and Natural Barriers
Preserving and restoring natural barriers such as
wetlands, mangroves, and dunes can mitigate flooding
and storm surge impacts. These ecosystems act as barriers and can function as natural sponges, absorbing
excess water and reducing wave energy before it
reaches populated areas.
Stormwater Management Systems
Modern infrastructure design commonly incorporates
a complex array of subgrade stormwater drainage systems, canals, barriers, and other mechanisms to divert
potential flood waters away from populated areas.
These components can be supplemented by site-specific designs, including the incorporation of drainage
mechanisms, retention elements, and site planning efforts, to reduce the risk to individual properties. By
implementing these strategies, individuals and communities can better protect themselves against the
risks posed by flooding and storm surges.
4. Community Rebuilding and Resilience
Strengthen community networks to rebuild shared
spaces like schools, parks, and community centers.
Promote disaster education to raise awareness about
flood prevention and preparedness for future events.
Incorporate resilient urban design features, such as
enhanced drainage systems and protective barriers, to
reduce vulnerability to future natural disasters.
5. Mental Health and Emotional Recovery
Provide access to counseling services for individuals
coping with trauma and loss. Encourage community
gatherings and peer support networks to foster emotional healing. Share resources, such as crisis hotlines
and professional counseling services, to support mental health. Address long-term emotional needs by ensuring ongoing mental health care for those suffering
from post-traumatic stress or anxiety.
Offshore Breakwaters
Offshore Breakwaters are submerged or partially
submerged structures designed to dissipate wave energy before it reaches the shore. These structures can
reduce the height and force of incoming waves, protecting coastal infrastructure and reducing erosion.6
Recovery post-flooding requires a coordinated effort
between individuals, communities, and governments.
By combining immediate actions with long-term planning, communities can not only rebuild but also become more resilient against future disasters.
By combining engineered defenses like sea walls and
levees with nature-based solutions such as wetland
restoration, communities can create comprehensive
strategies to mitigate flooding and storm surge risks.
These measures protect lives and properties and contribute to long-term resilience against climate-related
challenges.
Flooding and Storm Surge FAQs
What are the warning signs of impending flooding?
To protect lives and property from flooding, it's crucial
to recognize warning signs early. Heavy rainfall is a
common indicator, as it can cause rivers and low areas
to overflow. Pay attention to weather alerts, such as
flash flood warnings, and stay informed through apps
or radio updates.
Recovery and Rehabilitation Processes
Recovering from a flood is a complex process that
involves immediate clean-up, rebuilding infrastructure, and addressing long-term physical, emotional,
and financial challenges. Here's an outline of the
critical steps:
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