The Impact of Climate Change on Flooding Disasters

The Impact of Climate Change on Flooding Disasters

Our weather is no doubt becoming more extreme. Climate change and rising global temperatures are largely to blame for this pattern. Rainfall is more intense, sea levels are climbing, and hurricanes are becoming more frequent. Here’s what you need to know to protect yourself and your property.  

Types of Flooding

There are four main types of flooding: river and stream flooding, coastal flooding, flash flooding, and urban flooding.

One study shows an estimated 41 million U.S. residents are at risk of flooding along rivers and streams. More than 8.6 million Americans live in areas prone to coastal flooding, which can cause widespread devastation. Flash floods are responsible for the greatest number of flood-related fatalities. Urban flooding occurs when rainfall overwhelms the local stormwater drainage capacity of a densely populated area.

Impact of Climate Change on Floods

It is hard to directly link flooding to climate change due to a lack of data on historical events of the past. However, a report by the IPCC (Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) found evidence that climate change “has detectably influenced” water-related variables that contribute to flooding, such as rainfall and snowmelt.

How Climate Change Increases Flood Risks

There are several ways climate change can enhance the risk of flooding. 

Heavier precipitation. A warmer atmosphere holds more water which is dumped on our earth. America has heated up about 1.8 degrees Fahrenheit since 1901 and has become about 4% wetter. In the Northeast, the most extreme storms generate about 27% more moisture than they did a century ago. Heavy precipitation events are projected to increase, along with temperatures, through the 21st century.  

More hurricanes. The frequency of strong storms is a trend that will likely continue through this century. In the Atlantic basin, an 80% jump in the frequency of category 4 and 5 hurricanes, the most destructive, is expected over the next 80 years.

Increasing global sea levels. As temperatures rise, melting glaciers and ice sheets will dump more water into the seas. Our oceans are seven to eight inches higher than they were in 1900. Three of those inches have been added since 1993. The IPCC predicts world seas will rise anywhere from a foot to more than four feet by this century’s end. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) projects ocean waters along the East Coast could be nearly 10 feet higher by 2100. 

Flash Flooding Trends

The number of flash floods will continue to increase due to more frequent extreme precipitation events. Researchers also expect these floods will become more dangerous, as their timing gets shorter and their magnitude higher. 

It may also become more common for flash floods to follow catastrophic wildfires that destroy forests and other vegetation. Wildfires weaken the soil and make it less permeable. If heavy rain falls in the area, the land won’t absorb it like it once did. 

How to Prepare for Flooding 

There are a few things you can do to prepare for high water. If you live in a flood-prone area, invest in flood insurance. Plan and practice an evacuation route and routine with your family. Assemble an emergency supply kit. Visit  Ready.gov for help. Stay on top of changing weather conditions.  

Let Us Clean Up the Mess

When it comes to home disasters, Flood Department is here to help. We provide repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses. We are dedicated to helping reverse the damage done by water, mold, sewage, smoke, and more. We cover Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. Contact us today at 301-829-2600 or visit us online.  

How to Dry Out Home Water Damage

How to Dry Out Home Water Damage

Excess water can quickly wreak havoc in a home. When a pipe bursts, or flood waters invade, it can be a nightmare. Here are ways to quickly dry out the premises and clean up the mess.

Drying Out Time

The first question many people ask is how long it will take to dry out their home. The drying process typically takes about five days. However, the time can vary depending on the amount of damage and how long the area has been wet. If the drying process isn’t taken care of quickly, more damage may occur.

How to Prepare for Clean Up

You and your family will likely have to leave the house for a time while the mess is being cleaned up. This will allow certified experts to survey the damage, set up drying equipment, and make repairs. The process could be further delayed if water has saturated carpeting or flooring. It may have to be pulled up and replaced to keep mold from growing.

How to Dry Your Home

An easy way to treat minor water issues is to let your home air dry. If you open a few windows and let the house air out, the water will dry out faster. Pay attention to the weather forecast. Don’t keep the windows open if it’s raining outside. If you live in a humid climate, this method won’t work.

Home Drying Devices

There are some tools you can use to speed up the drying process.

A high-power fan will efficiently and quickly dry up the general area. It works similar to an automatic hand dryer in a public restroom. The water may even dry in a couple of hours.

Dehumidifiers will help take moisture out of the air. In a drier environment, water is less likely to soak into furniture and the room will dry out faster.

A high-power vacuum will quickly draw water out of carpets, fabrics, or cloth. The device will also reduce the drying time.

A pump is the best way to eliminate large amounts of standing water. Once the water is out, continue drying out the affected area with one of the methods above.

Keep safety in mind before plugging in any device to help dry out your home. Don’t use any equipment near water. Make sure there is no water damage to electrical outlets. If you’re in doubt, call a professional for help.  

Don’t Ignore Water Damage

Water damage that’s left alone can lead to mold growth and mildew, which can cause skin problems and respiratory issues. Untreated water damage can cause structural damage, attract pests, and heighten the risk of electric shock. Untreated water damage can also leave a bad smell in the house and create water stains on walls and ceilings. Electrical damage, high water bills, costly repairs, and lower house values may also result if the damage remains untouched.

Leave the Cleaning to Us

When it comes to water, flood, or fire damage, Flood Department is here to help. We provide water damage repair and clean-up services for homeowners and businesses. We cover Maryland, Pennsylvania, Virginia, West Virginia, and Washington, D.C. We are dedicated to helping reverse the unfortunate results. Contact us at 301-829-2600 or visit us online.