Community Flood Perceptions in the Context of Flood Risk and Flood Hazard Indicators

Abstract

Floods have and continue to cause severe damage to property and loss of life globally and in the US. The perceived risk of flooding, defined as an individual’s subjective assessment of the likelihood and severity of a flood event, can influence their preparedness and response to flooding and proposed mitigation strategies. The current study investigated individuals’ flood risk perception using data from 700 responses to a telephone survey conducted in Harris County, Texas (Houston). Results indicated that individuals lack situational awareness (i.e., ability to perceive, understand, and effectively respond) of their flood risk but are well-informed and have opinions regarding proposed mitigation alternatives. The study correlated flood risk perception to select sociodemographic variables and demonstrated more corresponding perceptions of risk among older White and Asian communities. The study additionally pointed to the complexity of flood risk assessment and the lack of effective communication methods and tools to better inform individuals and communities. The study used data on flood hazard indicators such as past flooding and high-water marks after a flood to assess objective risks; it is proposed that such a framework presents an opportunity for more readily communicating flood risks to individuals and communities.