Asheville Faces Growing Flood Risks Amid Warming Climate

Asheville Faces Growing Flood Risks Amid Warming Climate

Asheville, a picturesque city nestled in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, is grappling with a troubling forecast: as the climate warms, we can expect to see a surge in intense rain events and flooding across western North Carolina. This is not just a distant concern; it’s a pressing reality that many residents are beginning to feel firsthand.

The Situation at Hand

According to experts, Buncombe County is on track to gain more than 83,000 residents by 2045. This population boom means more rooftops and impervious surfaces, which leads to increased runoff. Unfortunately, our streams and stormwater drains are already struggling to keep up with the rains we receive. The impact on low-lying areas, especially those with vulnerable populations, could be devastating, with some experts estimating potential damages nearing $75 million.

Many areas at risk are home to a significant number of residents who are people of color or facing social vulnerabilities, such as poverty, lack of transportation, and crowded housing. It’s a double hit for these communities when severe weather strikes.

Historic Flooding Trends

The numbers don’t lie. Buncombe County currently faces risks from over 1,800 homes and 554 commercial buildings that could be affected by a 100-year flood. As we’ve seen in recent years, unpredictable flooding events have already started disrupting lives. For instance, during Tropical Storm Fred in August 2021, parts of Smokey Park Highway experienced unexpected flooding that drew widespread attention.

By mid-September, Asheville Regional Airport recorded 41.62 inches of rain, which is about 5.83 inches above normal for the year. Folks in the area can recall record-setting downpours that have caused chaos, reminding us how unprepared we still are.

What’s Being Done?

Local authorities are striving to enhance their understanding of flood risks and adapt accordingly. Asheville’s Stormwater Division is active in clearing drains and checking creeks for blockages, while the county is slowly updating flood maps that reflect the changing risk landscape due to climate change.

As part of these efforts, officials are also educating residents about the necessity of flood insurance, regardless of their current location relative to flood zones. Some have started to make improvements to their properties. For example, several residents have invested in new driveways that divert water better and improve their chances of staying dry during heavy rains.

Voices from the Community

Mary Weber, a resident of North Asheville, shared her own experiences with flooding, recalling how her property was once thought to be safe and free from flood risks. Like many others, she has until recently been unaware of her house’s position in the floodplain. “We only found out when we were refinancing, and that was a huge shock,” said Weber.

Others, such as Sophie Dixon, who lives near the creek in the Shiloh community, are acutely aware of their vulnerabilities but feel relatively helpless. “I can look out the window and see it come up!” Dixon stated, illustrating the constant worry she faces with flooding.

The Bigger Picture

This situation is part of a broader trend. As the climate continues to change, weather patterns will shift, leading to heavier rainfall. Weather experts anticipate that these patterns will exacerbate flooding issues, especially in areas with outdated stormwater infrastructure. As the National Climate Assessment points out, global temperatures have risen, which contributes to the amount of moisture held in the atmosphere, and consequently, the intensity of rain we are experiencing.

Not only are we confronted with potential flooding from intense storms, but also from the cumulative effects of years of development that has made our lands more impervious. Urban flooding is set to increase unless we take action now.

Looking Ahead

Looking ahead, the community’s hope lies in the upcoming updates to flood maps and preparedness plans, slated for release by the end of 2025. Although these improvements do not include projections based on climate change scenarios, they provide a starting point for collective resilience. Individuals can contribute by adapting their properties to better manage runoff, opting for solutions like rain barrels and vegetation buffers.

As residents hear stories from neighbors impacted by floods, a sense of urgency grows. Those living on the front lines of this escalating issue are rallying together, sharing tips, and advocating for better flood management practices. But for now, it’s a waiting game, trying to brace for what nature might throw at us next.

In the weeks to come, let’s keep the conversation going, raise awareness, and continue to support one another in our efforts to navigate this challenge together. After all, we’re all in this together.