Urban Hydrologic System Response to Recent Changes in Extreme Events in New York City
Urban areas, particularly those with dense populations and infrastructure, are increasingly vulnerable to the impacts of severe weather events such as hurricanes and tropical storms. This study focuses on the role of green infrastructure in mitigating flood risks in New York City (NYC) during recent hurricanes and storms. We assess the performance of green infrastructure components in managing stormwater and reducing flood impacts. By analyzing hydrological data and flood patterns from recent events, we evaluate the effectiveness of green infrastructure in enhancing urban flood resilience, since the integration of green infrastructure not only mitigates flood risks but also provides co-benefits such as improved water quality and increased green space. This research combines field observations, hydrological modeling (such as SWMM), and stakeholder feedback to provide a comprehensive understanding of green infrastructure performance under changing extreme weather conditions. Our findings offer valuable insights for urban hydrologic engineers, planners and policymakers, emphasizing the necessity of incorporating green infrastructure into urban flood management strategies. By enhancing the city’s flood resilience, green infrastructure can play a crucial role in preparing NYC for the future challenges posed by climate change and increasing storm intensity.