Floods, a global phenomenon, impact more people worldwide than any other type of natural hazard, underscoring the urgency and importance of addressing this issue.
Flooding disasters are predicted to worsen with increased population growth, urbanization, and economic development in hazard-prone areas, coupled with the increasing frequency and intensity of extreme weather events resulting from climate change.
The costs associated with floods in the US vary widely depending on the severity, duration, and location of the flood events. According to the National Oceanic and Administration Agency (NOAA) floods are the most common natural Disasters in the US, and they cause billions of dollars in damages and economic losses each year.
In the past decade, the US has experienced several major flood events, including Hurricane Harvey in 2017, which caused an estimated $125 billion in damages, and the Midwest floods in 2019, which caused an estimated $6.2 billion in damages. More recently Hurricane Ian in 2022 resulted in over $112 billion in damage. This year, the devasting flash floods in Afghanistan and Oman, the Uruguay river floods and Argentina flood chaos.
In addition to massive property damage and loss, floods can also have significant impacts on public infrastructure such as roads, bridges, utilities as well as agricultural production, transportation, and economic activities. The costs of flood prevention and mitigation efforts, such as levee dams, can also be significant.
Overall, the cost of flood disasters in the US is substantial, and it highlights the importance of preparation. Where communities take back control and better prepare to reduce the negative impacts of flooding on the economy.
Decisions that affect flood risk and resilience are often made at the global and national levels, yet communities feel the impacts of floods almost immediately.
At the community level, there is a powerful opportunity for resilience action. Communities, with their intimate knowledge of local conditions, can strategically focus activities for maximum impact. This collaborative approach can yield tangible improvements in people’s lives and influence higher-level government policy, instilling a sense of hope and motivation.
Why resilience? Why preparedness? Act now!
Investing in flood resilience before an event can significantly reduce losses and damages. In fact, every USD 1 invested in flood risk reduction has been proven to save, on average, USD 5 in future losses. This data, sourced from the Zurich Alliance, highlights the financial benefits of prioritizing resilience.
Providing education and resources on flood preparedness, knowing your risks, and equipping your home and business in advance is essential to mitigate the impact, protect the contents of businesses and residents from flood damage, and get back on your feet in a reduced time frame.
Displacement from one’s home, loss of property contents, and business assets, livelihoods, disruption to business and social affairs can cause continuing stress and ongoing costs to those who are unprepared. There are three protective items that can save homes and business contents. Krisis Flood Bags, barriers and sandbags, these are designed to either prevent water coming into the home or business, or protecting your contents once the water gets in.
We are living in biblical times. Flooding disasters are more significant, frequent, and severe and are costing many livelihoods and heartaches for millions of families per year.
Actions can be taken to enhance preparedness and build resilience when preparing for hurricane and flooding disasters. Here are some essential preparedness and resilience actions:
- Create an Emergency Plan: Develop a comprehensive emergency plan for your family and business. This plan should include evacuation routes, emergency contacts, and a communication strategy.
- Assemble an Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit that includes essential items such as water, non-perishable food, first-aid supplies, flashlights, batteries, and important documents. Keep the kit in a readily accessible location.
- Secure Your Property: Protect your home and business against flood damage. This may include elevating critical equipment and utilities, installing flood barriers or protective shields, and reinforcing doors and windows.
- Stay Informed: Stay updated with weather forecasts and flood warnings. Sign up for emergency alerts and notifications for timely information about potential hazards and evacuation orders.
- Review Insurance Coverage: Review and understand your insurance policies, including flood insurance. Ensure you have adequate coverage for your home, business, and belongings.
- Community Engagement: Engage with your local community and participate in disaster preparedness and resilience-building initiatives. Join neighborhood preparedness groups and collaborate with local authorities for effective response and recovery efforts.
- Establish Business Continuity Plans: Develop continuity plans for businesses to ensure the smooth operation of essential functions during and after a disaster. This may involve data backup, remote work arrangements, and supply chain resilience strategies.
By taking these preparedness and resilience actions, individuals and businesses can significantly enhance their ability to mitigate the impacts of hurricane and flooding disasters. This proactive approach protects lives and property and empowers communities, making them feel more in control and confident in their ability to recover swiftly.
Steve Harris -CEO
Krisis Flood Bags
Rethink Flood Protection; get prepared today.