Researchers say climate change may bring serious floods more frequently

Posted: 2012-02-15

As the clean-up continues in Queensland after the last fortnight's flooding, attention now turns to the possibilities of prevention strategies. Maranoa Regional Council has a plan underway for drainage and levee development in Roma, which was worst-hit by the waters, and the national government has pledged $10 million in funding for flood prevention research in the area.

But a new study by MIT and Princeton University has found that storm-related disasters may continue to damage inland areas - and more frequently - due to climate change.

In the wake of Hurricane Irene - which left parts of the eastern US badly damaged and was described as "a 100-year event" - researchers say that these larger storms may now begin to wreak their havoc every three to 20 years.

The study suggests that understanding how frequently storm surges occur will allow urban planners to design better protective features for both coastal and inland communities.

And while governments may plan for prevention, preparation for the possibility of damage can help reduce the likelihood of potentially lengthy negotiations with officials during the recovery phase after a natural disaster.

A review of your commercial building insurance could help tighten up your policy, and give you more peace of mind for the future.