Flooding poses the biggest health risk to New York City residents, says a new report from city officials.
The New York City Health Department issues such jurisdictional risk assessments every five years, and the latest version lists flooding as “the most pressing public health threat for NYC” — more so than dangers such as cyberattacks or pandemics. The expected frequency of flood events is one reason for the designation.
“Rising sea levels and intensifying storms could make flooding a more frequent occurrence and a significant risk to NYC’s infrastructure and a communities,” the report says.
The report recommends the city use backwater valves to prevent sewer backups, build rain gardens to absorb stormwater runoff, retrofit homes with flood resistant materials and promote green spaces.
