Gongloff: The flash-flood era is here, and we're not ready
Briefly

New York City faced severe flooding as over two inches of rain fell in less than an hour, leading to disastrous consequences, including two deaths and extensive property damage. This issue reflects a troubling trend; the frequency and severity of such flooding events have intensified due to climate change. Warmer air holds more moisture, resulting in increasingly heavy rainfall. Many regions that were once safe from flooding now experience it regularly. Despite investments in flood-resilient infrastructure, many areas remain unprepared to handle these extreme weather events, indicating a clear need for improvement.
Flooding in New York City turned subway stations into raging rivers after a sudden downpour, killing at least two people and damaging property.
The frequency and severity of floods are worsening as warmer air holds more water, making rainstorms heavier and more destructive.
Hundred- and thousand-year floods are becoming routine, impacting regions previously considered safe from climate change.
Despite the increasing frequency of flooding, much of the country remains unprepared, highlighting the need for better flood-resilient infrastructure.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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