When the remnants of Hurricane Ida swept through New York City in September, 2021, rain fell faster than the sewer system could drain the rainfall away. The immediate consequence was 14 deaths, primarily from drowning. Property damage was extensive.Â
In a rapidly warming world, weather extremes become more common. In NYC, rainfall has risen 20% since the mid-20th century. Critically, episodes of rainfall are now often more intense, overwhelming our capacity to absorb them. And NYC has 520 miles of coast line; sea level rise means that neighborhoods adjoining the coasts are particularly vulnerable.Â
How do we protect ourselves and our neighbors in the face of flooding? Here are some resources:Â
10 Things Everyone Should Know about Heavy Rainfall in New York
from Rebuild by Design Â
The City Sponge
A wealth of information specific to New York City on everything from flood insurance to the optimal use of sandbags to organizing with your neighbors. Â
NYC Department of Environmental Protection
NYC DEP is responsible for our clean water supply and our sewer system, and so is at the forefront of city government efforts to prevent flooding
Rainfall Ready NYC: A Homeowner’s Guide
NYC DEP’s tips to help you protect your home from flooding and sewer backups during rainfall events
NYC Department of Emergency Management
The NYCEM is responsible for addressing immediate issues raised by flooding, whether from downpours, sea level rise, or other causes. Its website has a number of resources.
NYC Department of Health
Advice for how to respond before, during, and after a flood
FloodHelpNY
Helpful information primarily directed at building owners, both residential and small commercial.Â
Gowanus Canal Conservancy
Gowanus Canal Conservancy recognizes that its neighborhood in Brooklyn is among those most vulnerable to flooding. It is also in the midst of a tremendous burst of development that is also accompanied by an expansion of public spaces. How to sustain flourishing public spaces in the face of multiple challenges is one of their projects. And check out their work to promote local plant life adapted to local conditions: https://gowanuscanalconservancy.org/nursery/Â
Regional Plan Association
Regional Plan Association’s recent report, “Averting Crisis: Zoning to Create Resilient Homes for All,” shows the strong links between flooding and the housing shortage. 15% of NYC’s residential-zoned land is prone to flooding, a vulnerability that will only grow worse as sea levels rise and storms grow stronger. The report has good maps and data.Â
đź“· Banner image David Shankbone, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
