Urban flooding causing economic loss, social disruption, and housing inequality

Several factors are contributing to increased vulnerability to flooding in urban areas, according to The Growing Threat of Urban Flooding: A National Challenge, a new report by the University of Maryland and Texas A&M University.

As the nation experiences more intense rainfall events, many cities have inadequate infrastructure to cope, the report says. Adding to the problem has been rapid suburban and urban land development that has increased the amount of stormwater runoff.

With multiple government agencies at all levels having some responsibility for these issues, there is lack of collaboration and coordination needed to address technical and political challenges. For example, information on how property owners can reduce their flood risk is not accessible or well-articulated.

In addition, a significant number of areas vulnerable to urban flooding are not identified by FEMA National Flood Insurance Program maps. The reports’ authors made a series of recommendations including that Congress assign one federal agency to provide interim oversight of federal support of urban flood mitigation activities.

New ideas in design and constructability are radically changing how metal systems are used as roofing for commercial and institutional buildings. Behind the investment in these new kinds of expressions and construction approaches is a growing interest in improved performance and reduced environmental impact. Metal roofing systems can cut cooling and heating loads significantly, according to the EPA.