Flood Hazards in PA, NJ, AND DE: How Lower-Income Communities Fare

Damaged or destroyed homes, displaced families, and personal harm. Millions of Americans face the impacts of flooding each year. Two new reports examine flood hazards and risk in Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Delaware.

One study finds that in noncoastal areas in the three states, properties in low- and moderate-income neighborhoods face greater risks when compared with their higher-income counterparts. When it comes to coastal areas, the opposite is true. Yet, increased flood hazards touch all residents in shore communities.

A companion report compares the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s well-established Special Flood Hazard Areas with a new, alternative measure from the First Street Foundation. The study seeks to understand the implications for residents in less advantaged communities.

For more on climate risks and adaptation in our region, the Federal Reserve Banks of Philadelphia and New York invite you to a one-day event on workforce solutions for community climate resilience. Learn more and register.