The recent rash of torrential rainstorms across Bangalore and Mumbai, India/Florida, USA and indeed around the world has cast a bright spotlight on the serious problem of intensified flooding events. The injuries, fatalities, damage to homes and businesses, and the entire municipal infrastructure, are devastating. And given the reality of climate change, these flooding disasters will escalate… unless we take some proactive measures to mitigate the problem..
Ask many who are flooded, they seem to always say I will return and rebuild, yet most don't change the building habits. In urban storm surge zones, standards may be to build or replace with structures on piers or for buildings, the first floor is an open market, eating or parking area, where flood or storm surge waters may pass through with little damage. Of course, address excessive sources of carbon emission, etc., but change the paradigms used for building in flood and surge zones. Engineers and building standards need adjustment for the circumstances, if we build on steep slopes covered in flammable brush, don't allow structures built of flammable materials, and of course, use brush control, etc. to reduce hazard and risks.
I had to walk dog. In addition, increasingly recognize the hydrological changes of land use to watersheds, impervious surfaces and excessive sediment that would aggrade channel, loosing capacity and increase flooding. Changing lands from forest to grasslands, farming, urban uses increases water yield and may contribute to flooding. We need to increasingly understand and consider the past, present and future cumulative effects that we contribute to, and adjust accordingly, especially when life is in the balance. And obvious that early warning and evacuation can save lives. Few like laws, regulations or standards, but it is doubtful that simple education and suggestions will be adequate. Perhaps contractors and engineers building in especially hazardous urban or high traffic zones need an extra level of certification to ensure they know how to identify and mitigate the risks, and make necessary considerations and adjustments for public health and safety.
The main problem related to recent floods is exclusively due to the un-scientific planning of urban settlements and other infrastructure developments like roads; buildings; etc.,related to increased population growth with time. Most of the trees are cut; most of the soil layer has been completely covered and concretized; there is lack of rainwater drains; etc. Hence it is more related to population & urbanization than "Climate Change". Now it is upto the concerned authorities to recognize these and take necessary corrective steps immediately, such that at least in the future these man made hazards are not taken place or the intensity of flood devastation is reduced.
