Large and inequitable flood risks in Los Angeles, California

Brett F. Sanders (), Jochen E. Schubert, Daniel T. Kahl, Katharine J. Mach, David Brady, Amir AghaKouchak, Fonna Forman, Richard A. Matthew, Nicola Ulibarri and Steven J. Davis
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Brett F. Sanders: University of California
Jochen E. Schubert: University of California
Daniel T. Kahl: University of California
Katharine J. Mach: University of Miami
David Brady: University of California
Amir AghaKouchak: University of California
Fonna Forman: University of California
Richard A. Matthew: University of California
Nicola Ulibarri: University of California
Steven J. Davis: University of California

Nature Sustainability, 2023, vol. 6, issue 1, 47-57

Abstract: Abstract Flood risks in the United States have historically been underestimated, particularly with respect to human well-being and within low-wealth and marginalized communities. Here, we characterize a fuller range of risks in Los Angeles, California, using a quantitative framework that intersects flood hazards from rainfall, streamflow and storm tides with measures of exposure and vulnerability including ethnicity, race and socioeconomic disadvantage. We find that between 197,000 and 874,000 people (median 425,000) and between US$36 billion and US$108 billion in property (median US$56 billion) are exposed to flooding greater than 30 cm within the 100-year flood zone, risk levels far above federally defined floodplains and similar to the most damaging hurricanes in US history. These risks are disproportionately higher for non-Hispanic Black and disadvantaged populations, burdening communities that may have greater challenges recovering and reinforcing socioeconomic inequities. Our framework creates opportunities for transparently and equitably reducing flood risks in urban areas.

Date: 2023
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DOI: 10.1038/s41893-022-00977-7

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