Rising Waters: Planning for Flooding in the Ocean State

This video is part of PREP-RI, an online module series developed to increase the capacity of municipal officials and staff to make effective decisions supporting resilience in Rhode Island. Flooding is the most common natural hazard in Rhode Island. Sea level rise, an increase in heavy rain events, and more impervious cover have contributed to more frequent flooding due to extreme high tides, storm surge, and stormwater runoff. Floods can damage state and municipal infrastructure, prevent first responders from reaching emergencies, and cause costly damage and disruption to businesses and residences. This module introduces different types of flooding and offers long-term planning solutions and near-term adaptation methods to limit future damage and allow those impacted by flooding to recover more quickly.