Short Wave What Cities Should Learn From California's Flooding
Jan 19, 2023
Lauren Sommer, NPR climate correspondent, shares her insights on California’s recent flooding and its implications for urban planning. She discusses how climate change is reshaping weather patterns, forcing a rethink of outdated infrastructure. Sommer highlights innovative water management strategies to prepare for future floods while balancing drought concerns. She also addresses the importance of updated rainfall data to guide infrastructure design and emphasizes the need for cities to adapt dynamically for climate resilience.
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Drought Paradox
- California is experiencing a disconnect between heavy rainfall and a historic drought.
- Reservoirs are low, causing runoff and flooding despite abundant rain.
Dynamic Reservoir Management
- Manage reservoirs dynamically using weather forecasts.
- This avoids preemptive emptying and maximizes water storage during droughts.
Urban Flooding
- Flooding isn't just a river issue; rainfall overwhelms stormwater systems.
- These systems are often designed using outdated rainfall data.