COASTAL CHALLENGESUneven Land Sinking Across New Orleans Increasing Flood Risk

Parts of New Orleans and its surrounding wetlands are gradually sinking, and while most of the city remains stable, a new study suggests that sections of the region’s $15 billion post-Katrina flood protection system may need regular upgrades to outpace long-term land subsidence.

• Read more

CASCADING HAZARDSHurricane Helene Set Up Future Disasters, from Landslides to Flooding -- Cascading Hazards Like These Are Now Upending Risk Models

By Brian J. Yanites

Hurricane Helene lasted only a few days in September 2024, but it altered the landscape of the Southeastern U.S. in profound ways that will affect the hazards local residents face far into the future.

• Read more

FLOODSNew Tool Could Help Florida Homeowners Weather Flood Risks, Lower Insurance Costs

By Karen Dooley

With flood risks increasing from extreme weather events like hurricanes and even routine plumbing issues, researchers are helping Florida homeowners make smarter choices about building materials and interior finishes that better protect their homes and potentially save on their insurance premiums.

• Read more

POWER-GRID RESILIENCE Hardening the Grid: Research Team Focuses on Quake Proofing Transformer Bushings

By Paul Menser

During an earthquake, the place where a large, high-voltage power transformer is most vulnerable is its bushings – hollow electrical insulators that safely guide current between a transformer’s internal windings and external power lines.

• Read more

DISASTERSFlood Risk is Increasing in Pacific Northwest

The next great earthquake isn’t the only threat to the Pacific Northwest. A powerful earthquake, combined with rising sea levels, could significantly increase flood risks in the Pacific Northwest, impacting thousands of residents and properties in Northern California, Oregon, and Washington.

• Read more

INFRASTRUCTURE PROTECTIONMajor U.S. Cities Are Sinking

By Kelly Izlar

An analysis of 28 major U.S. cities revealed that all 28 are sinking, potentially affecting 34 million people, according to Virginia Tech research published in Nature Cities.

• Read more