ASFPM Policy Priorities

Climate Change

What It Is

Climate change refers to significant and lasting changes in global weather patterns over an extended period, resulting in  rising sea levels, more frequent and intense storms,  riverine flooding, and the associated risks of each of these events.

Why It Matters

Climate change has profound implications for floodplain management practices as it exacerbates existing flood risks and introduces new challenges for communities. Increased frequency and severity of storms, hurricanes, and heavy rainfall events lead to higher flood risks in floodplain areas and overwhelms drainage systems in urban areas where the water has fewer places to go. Also, as global temperatures rise, glaciers and polar ice caps melt, contributing to sea-level rise. These changes threaten coastal communities and low-lying areas, increasing the likelihood of coastal flooding and inundation of floodplains.

Changes in precipitation patterns can result in unpredictable river flows, changing floodplain boundaries, and shifting flood risk profiles, including in areas previously thought to be “safe” from flooding, such as those areas affected by “pluvial” or rainwater flooding an area that simply cannot absorb the excess water because, in many cases, the infrastructure is outdated and was built for a climate we no longer have. This complicates floodplain management efforts and necessitates adaptive strategies.

Our Position

ASFPM recognizes the urgency of addressing climate change in floodplain management practices. ASFPM advocates for adaptive strategies and resilient infrastructure to cope with changing flood risks and protect communities, while promoting education and awareness among policymakers, practitioners, and the public about the link between climate change and floodplain management. ASFPM encourages collaboration among stakeholders and invests in research to develop innovative solutions for climate-resilient floodplain management.

Key Resources on Climate Change

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