Today, half of all U.S. economic losses from floods are due to pluvial, or flash flooding, rather than river or coastal flooding. In addition, risk analysts XDI 1000 predicts a threefold increase in damage to commercial property from climate-related risks by 2050. So flash flooding is not only an issue that could happen somewhere else; it is very much an issue around the U.S. Despite its distance from the U.S., Dubai stands out as a poignant reminder of the urgent need for enhanced flood resilience and preparedness measures, particularly in regions not traditionally prone to such disasters. Consider the U.S. state of Nevada, where Las Vegas suffered multiple lethal flash floods in October 2022. |

Dubai issues mirrored in the U.S.

Dubai's susceptibility to flooding can be attributed to a combination of factors mirrored in parts of the U.S., including its arid climate, rapid urbanization, and inadequate infrastructure. The city's infrastructure may not have been designed to withstand extreme weather events, leading to vulnerabilities in drainage systems and flood defenses. Further, the lack of awareness and preparedness among residents and businesses exacerbates the impact of flooding, highlighting the need for proactive measures to address this growing threat. This also applies in the U.S., where in recent years, there have been unusually high levels of flooding (for instance, the record flooding in New York in October 2023, which led to the close of major infrastructure, including La Guardia Airport and John F. Kennedy Airport). |

What can be learned from Dubai flooding

What can be learned from Dubai's recent catastrophic flooding event, where 18 months of rain fell in just two days? Cities in the U.S. need a comprehensive "prepare, act, and prevent" approach to minimize the risk of future flooding. This includes investing in infrastructure, such as improved drainage networks and flood barriers, to mitigate the impact of heavy rainfall and reduce the risk of flooding. Traditional weather forecasting methods may not accurately predict extreme weather events like the heavy rainfall that caused Dubai's flooding. By leveraging advanced technologies, such as real-time data analysis and IoT sensors, authorities can receive accurate and timely flood forecasts, enabling proactive response measures and mitigating the impact of flooding on communities. Raising awareness about flood risks and providing guidance on preparedness measures are essential components of effective flood resilience strategies. Community engagement initiatives can empower residents and businesses to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their property from flooding, ultimately enhancing overall flood resilience. Climate change is exacerbating the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, including flooding. Incorporating climate change considerations into urban planning and development strategies is critical to ensuring that infrastructure and policies are resilient to future climate scenarios. Effective flood management requires collaboration and coordination among various stakeholders, including government agencies, private sector organizations, and community groups. By working together and sharing resources and expertise, cities can enhance their collective ability to respond to and recover from flooding events. Continued investment in research and innovation is essential for developing new technologies and solutions to address the challenges posed by flooding. This includes the development of flood-resistant building materials, innovative drainage systems, and predictive modeling tools to improve flood resilience. Nature-based solutions, such as green infrastructure and wetland creation, can help absorb excess rainfall and reduce the risk of flooding. Integrating these approaches into urban planning can enhance flood resilience and provide additional environmental benefits. Naturally, critical infrastructure must be resilient to flooding to ensure the continued functioning of essential services during and after an event. Implementing resilience measures like flood-proofing and redundancy planning can minimize disruptions and save lives. Regular preparedness and response exercises, including simulations and drills, can help authorities and emergency responders refine their procedures and identify areas for improvement. Raising public awareness about flood risks and promoting community preparedness are essential for ensuring a coordinated and effective response to flooding events. |

How insurers can add value

Flooding is a complex and evolving challenge that requires long-term planning and adaptation strategies. By incorporating flexibility and adaptive management principles into planning processes, cities can better respond to changing flood risks and uncertainties.

Jonathan Jackson

Insurers also have a crucial role in flood-risk impact, ensuring the adequacy, affordability, and awareness of insurance products, particularly in areas with low flood risk cover. Further, many major insurers now offer commercial clients risk mitigation services. By implementing a holistic approach that encompasses infrastructure investment, advanced forecasting technologies, community engagement, and collaboration among stakeholders, cities can build resilience and protect lives and property from the growing threat of flooding in the future. Jonathan Jackson is the CEO of Previsico, a UK-based insurtech that provides technology and expertise in real-time flood forecasting to insurers, government agencies, and businesses. Previsico's technology delivers early warnings to minimize the impact of flooding, enabling people and organizations to proactively mitigate flooding effects worldwide. This piece is published with permission from the author and may not be reproduced. See also: |

• NOAA: Nearly half of U.S. at risk of spring flooding
• Weather science, risk modeling and the 2024 hurricane season
• Flooding & storm surge: What's the difference?