Rising Frequency of 100-Year Floods: Climate Change Impact

The term "100 year floods" is becoming more common, as weather events, which were once considered rare are projected to occur frequently. According to a study published in Earths Future by the University of Alabama these floods could potentially happen every year.

The New Normal; Increased Flood Risks

"100 year floods" refers to weather events that historically had a 1% chance of occurring. However they can now happen times within a period or not at all for over a century. The real concern lies in the growing frequency of these supposedly rare events due to climate change.

A Global Threat; Rising Sea Levels

Global warming is leading to rising sea levels causing erosion on beaches and putting homes and infrastructure at risk of flooding. The University of Alabama study examined two scenarios for areas; one where greenhouse gas emissions continue at their rate and another where emissions peak in 2040, before declining.

Our Only Option; Taking Proactive Measures

the study identified that the frequency of 100 year floods is expected to increase under both scenarios.Its predicted that by 2050 coastal regions may see floods that were previously considered rare occurring every 10 to 15 years. Furthermore by the end of the century these areas could face floods every year. This increase, in frequency is anticipated to happen of efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. Consequently these findings highlight the need for measures, including reevaluating urban planning, in high risk zones. We must be prepared to deal with flood threats of them occurring only once every hundred years.