Date uploaded: 2022-08-07 14:46:16
The devastating floods that killed at least 37 people in Kentucky are fueling urgent questions about how to mitigate the impact of hazardous flooding in Appalachia, which is only expected to increase as climate change fuels more extreme weather.
But in one of America’s most economically depressed regions, there are few easy answers.
Measures such as flood wells, drainage systems or raising homes are expensive for cash-strapped counties. Buyouts or building restrictions are difficult in areas where safer options and new home construction are limited. Many are unable or unwilling to uproot.
Some residents are fatalistic or doubt the government can do much. Others are pushing for more protections in areas where many have few options to move and can’t afford flood insurance.
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Photo: Leandro Lozada/AFP via Getty Images
