This project will focus on a growing problem in central Pennsylvania: flooding caused by sudden, heavy rain and will bring together Penn State researchers and community partners to develop research plans to better understand and address this issue.
In central Pennsylvania, pluvial flooding is increasing due to the changing rainfall patterns in the region. These changes results in more short-duration, high-intensity storms, which overwhelm the drainage system, flooding streets and other transportation infrastructure, as well as flooding people’s homes and businesses. The highly localized nature of these storms usually results in the total financial damage being less than what would trigger a disaster declaration. Therefore, the residents are left to cope with the damage using limited insurance reimbursements and their own resources, as well as with the support of their “community” which may include family, neighbors, church members, etc.
This informal support network may, however, not have the resources to help the impacted people recover fully in a timely manner. This lack of recovery results in substantial stress and potentially long-term financial losses. Yet, as evidenced in many of the smaller towns and boroughs in central Pennsylvania, people “choose” not to move out of the area for multiple reasons, including financial, community connection, and family ties.
This project, hosted by the Equitable Communities and Built Environment theme team under the Institute for Energy and the Environment, will bring together Penn State researchers across multiple colleges and campuses with the external partners to develop community-centered research questions that will frame several proposals to federal funding agencies and foundations.
Project Type:
Level 1 – 2024 Workshop
Project Lead:
Shirley Clark
Professor of Environmental Engineering, Penn State