Florida is one of the most vulnerable states to flooding due to various factors including the risk of coastal storms, heavy rain and its relatively flat terrain. Although the city of Boca Raton currently has a minor risk of flooding, it is estimated that 11,030 properties will be at risk to experience flood damage in the next 30 years with impacts to roads and public services most vulnerable to flood impacts. This lecture will review the causes and contributors to flooding in areas of South Florida discussing social, community and personal risk. At the end of the lecture, we will review FEMA risk projections for properties in South Florida and discuss preparedness actions that can be taken by communities and individuals to reduce the damage associated with flooding.

Kaila Witkowski is an assistant professor in the Department of Public Administration at Florida Atlantic University, specializing in public administration, public health, and emergency management. Her research uses visual and community-based methods like PhotoVoice to explore the lived experiences of South Florida communities, and her work has been published in top journals and funded by the Natural Hazards Center.

Live In-Person with Video Catch-up. Available 2-3 business days after the live lecture.