Adaptation Strategies for Levees Under a Changing Climate

Abstract

The evolving hazard of flooding is a major risk to the nation's economy, safety, and well-being. Within the U.S. over the past four decades, inland floods have caused 624 fatalities and about $164 billion in losses that disproportionately affect disadvantaged communities. Flood damage due to climate change is projected to increase by more than 25 percent by 2050. In coastal areas, flooding risk is further increased by rising sea levels. The changing climate results in an urgent and critical need to develop and implement adaptation strategies for levees, which play a fundamental role in the nation's flood protection system. Special emphasis should be directed toward disadvantaged communities, which are at the greatest risk.