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Floodplains Belong to the Rivers: A Call to Action for Texas Business Leaders

Update Floodplains and Rising Consequences: A Texas Challenge The recent flooding incidents in Texas, particularly in Kerrville and Houston, have painted an alarming picture of the challenges facing the state. Each new flood is a painful reminder of a pattern we Texans seem doomed to repeat; despite repeated warnings, developments continue to encroach on floodplains—places that rightfully belong to the rivers. This situation calls for a critical reevaluation of how we live and develop in these vulnerable areas, especially as we witness unprecedented rainfall events thanks to climate change. Historical Context: Lessons Ignored Flooding in Texas is not new. Historical records show that devastating storms have struck the state for decades—most notably in 1987 and 2002, where heavy rains led to significant flooding on the Guadalupe River. These past events should have served as clear warnings about the risks associated with living in flood-prone areas. Yet, as we saw with Hurricane Harvey in 2017 and Tropical Storm Allison in 2001, despite the knowledge of this risk, local developments continue unabated. We must confront the uncomfortable truth that not only have we failed to adapt our practices, but we have also disregarded the eroding balance between human expansion and nature's formidable forces. Understanding Climate Change: A Texas-Specific Reality The challenges we face today are amplified by the harsh realities of climate change. Average global temperatures have risen approximately 1 degree Celsius from 1900 to 2000, leading to atmospheric conditions that contribute to increasingly intense rainfall events. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) recently revised the definition of a 100-year flood for Houston from 13 inches of rainfall in 24 hours to about 17 inches. Moreover, experts like Dr. Phil Bedient from Rice University argue this may still underestimate the precipitation potential, given that certain storms have already surpassed this benchmark. Urgent Need for Effective Flood Prevention Despite ongoing efforts to address flood risks through spatial planning and flood-prevention strategies, too often, these plans are based on outdated statistics. A critical misjudgment lies in underestimating the changing dynamics of our climate, which renders traditional floodplain maps ineffective for current realities. As business owners and leaders, understanding the implications of these shifts can drive better investment decisions and community planning efforts to mitigate future risks effectively. Community Actions: Collaboration for Change Texas must approach its floodplain management with seriousness and urgency. Community involvement is essential; we need more robust discussions about zoning laws, land development regulations, and environmental protections. Up-to-date floodplain maps should guide development, ensuring that we respect the natural water courses rather than continuously trying to outsmart them. Such changes require collaboration between local governments, businesses, and residents to protect our communities from climate-related disasters. Looking Ahead: Business Opportunities in Resilience In the face of these challenges, there lie opportunities for innovation and growth, particularly for businesses focused on sustainability and climate resilience. By investing in green infrastructure, businesses can contribute to flood reduction strategies while enhancing their viability in an increasingly volatile climate. Solutions that incorporate eco-friendly practices not only help mitigate flooding but can also attract a market increasingly concerned with sustainability. Conclusion: A Collective Responsibility The repeated stories of flooding in Texas should ignite a sense of urgency among us all—business leaders, community members, and policymakers—to take responsibility. The rivers have a rightful claim to their floodplains, and recognizing this is the first step toward a more sustainable future. As stakeholders in this community, we must advocate for change in local policy and land management strategies that respect and adapt to our changing environment. Only then can we begin to create a safer, more resilient Texas for everyone. Learn more about how you can actively engage in flood prevention efforts and make a difference in your community.