3 Ways Cities Are Fighting Flooding

6/17/2020 (Permalink)

Staying aware and ready is necessary to reduce flood damage.

The toll of flooding in Whitemarsh, PA, can be devastating and extremely costly. When high water begins to permeate structures, streets, and homes, communities rely on disaster recovery teams to face unexpected dangers and extensive damage. While many cities have retaining walls, levees, reservoirs, or retention ponds to hold water, other methods to stop flooding are being explored to minimize damage. Below are three ways cities are tackling flood issues.

1. New Products
Instead of relying on sandbags, many are turning to new innovations to prevent high water from creating damage, as well as reduce contamination. Watergates are lightweight, easy to deploy, and self-stabilize from water pressure. Inflatable barrier systems make it easier to keep the water at bay and are typically longer and lighter than traditional systems. Modular devices are also now available that can be stacked to the height needed to prevent water seepage.

2. Vegetation
Nature itself offers many ways to minimize flood damage. Many cities are beginning to see the benefits of green roofs, which absorb rainwater and assist with storm management. Instead of additional runoff from buildings, which eventually hits concrete and causes overflowing, these types of roofs can use the water to grow vegetation. Planting gardens, trees, shrubs, and other plants also provide additional ways to absorb excess water. Areas prone to flooding are also re-engineering or creating floodplains to better accommodate the absorption of water, which is lacking in cities covered in concrete.

3. Enhanced Sewage Systems
The main issue with flooding is sewage water. Upgrades to these systems allow for better separation of rainwater and sewer water, reducing the potential for wastewater to surge. Newer piping within the systems enhances their ability to function properly and reduce corrosion and buildup from adding to the effects of high water.

While flood prevention comes in many forms, high water and flooding are still not something property owners can dismiss. Staying aware and ready is necessary to reduce flood damage.