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The US is finally curbing floodplain development, new research shows

Summary

New research published in *Earth’s Future* reveals that most U.S. cities have avoided building in floodplains since 2001, contradicting common assumptions about risky development. The study shows that over 75% of jurisdictions are curbing floodplain construction, with problematic development largely concentrated in Florida and Louisiana. The research highlights how local zoning and permit denials—“routine municipal practices”—have been effective in reducing flood risk without sweeping policy reforms. However, outdated FEMA flood maps limit the impact of these measures, as many areas prone to flooding fall outside the regulated zones, underscoring the need for updated floodplain management.

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