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Large and inequitable flood risks in Los Angeles, California

Author

Listed:
  • Brett F. Sanders

    (University of California
    University of California
    University of California)

  • Jochen E. Schubert

    (University of California
    University of California)

  • Daniel T. Kahl

    (University of California)

  • Katharine J. Mach

    (University of Miami
    University of Miami)

  • David Brady

    (University of California
    University of California)

  • Amir AghaKouchak

    (University of California
    University of California
    University of California)

  • Fonna Forman

    (University of California
    University of California)

  • Richard A. Matthew

    (University of California
    University of California)

  • Nicola Ulibarri

    (University of California
    University of California)

  • Steven J. Davis

    (University of California
    University of California
    University of California)

Abstract

Flood risks in the United States have historically been underestimated, particularly with respect to human well-being and within low-wealth and marginalized communities. Here, we characterize a fuller range of risks in Los Angeles, California, using a quantitative framework that intersects flood hazards from rainfall, streamflow and storm tides with measures of exposure and vulnerability including ethnicity, race and socioeconomic disadvantage. We find that between 197,000 and 874,000 people (median 425,000) and between US$36 billion and US$108 billion in property (median US$56 billion) are exposed to flooding greater than 30 cm within the 100-year flood zone, risk levels far above federally defined floodplains and similar to the most damaging hurricanes in US history. These risks are disproportionately higher for non-Hispanic Black and disadvantaged populations, burdening communities that may have greater challenges recovering and reinforcing socioeconomic inequities. Our framework creates opportunities for transparently and equitably reducing flood risks in urban areas.

Suggested Citation

  • Brett F. Sanders & Jochen E. Schubert & Daniel T. Kahl & Katharine J. Mach & David Brady & Amir AghaKouchak & Fonna Forman & Richard A. Matthew & Nicola Ulibarri & Steven J. Davis, 2023. "Large and inequitable flood risks in Los Angeles, California," Nature Sustainability, Nature, vol. 6(1), pages 47-57, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:nat:natsus:v:6:y:2023:i:1:d:10.1038_s41893-022-00977-7
    DOI: 10.1038/s41893-022-00977-7
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    Cited by:

    1. Ying Pan & Ke Shi & Zhongxu Zhao & Yao Li & Junxi Wu, 2024. "The effects of China’s poverty eradication program on sustainability and inequality," Palgrave Communications, Palgrave Macmillan, vol. 11(1), pages 1-15, December.

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