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History, causes, and trend of floods in the U.S.: a review

Author

Listed:
  • Ruth Abegaz

    (Tarleton State University)

  • Fei Wang

    (Mississippi State University)

  • Jun Xu

    (Tarleton State University)

Abstract

The environment holds both valuable resources and potential dangers, with natural disasters, particularly floods, standing out prominently as a major threat to the society. Floods are a recurring natural phenomenon that has caused widespread destruction and human and economic loss. The U.S. has witnessed significant damages caused by flooding, contributing approximately 7.4% of the total economic losses attributed to natural disasters. This literature review investigates several aspects of floods in the U.S.: (1) The exploration of flood history unfolds a narrative of recurrent floods, highlighting significant events, their societal impacts, and the evolution of flood management strategies over time. (2) Causes triggering floods in the U.S. are scrutinized, emphasizing the influence of weather events such as heavy rainfall, snowmelt, and storms, which are connected with climate change, alongside the impact of anthropogenic factors like urbanization, deforestation, and inadequate infrastructures. (3) Previous studies discussed the future of flooding and agreed that climate change is increasing the risk of flooding in the U.S. (4) This review also synthesizes current trends, acknowledging the efforts in the ongoing research on flooding as well as suggesting the research and knowledge gaps that need in-depth investigations.

Suggested Citation

  • Ruth Abegaz & Fei Wang & Jun Xu, 2024. "History, causes, and trend of floods in the U.S.: a review," Natural Hazards: Journal of the International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, Springer;International Society for the Prevention and Mitigation of Natural Hazards, vol. 120(15), pages 13715-13755, December.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:nathaz:v:120:y:2024:i:15:d:10.1007_s11069-024-06791-y
    DOI: 10.1007/s11069-024-06791-y
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