The Rising Toll of Floods

The video discusses the impact of the Michigan floods in 2020, highlighting the failure of dams due to increased precipitation and outdated infrastructure. It features a case study of Dan Dice, whose home was destroyed, and insights from hydrologist Drew Gronwald on the aging dams. The video explains the hydrologic cycle and how climate change increases rainfall, leading to more frequent floods. It also explores flood management strategies, emphasizing community involvement and green infrastructure. Finally, it provides safety tips for flood preparedness.

What was a significant factor contributing to the Michigan floods in May 2020?

• Increased precipitation and outdated infrastructure

• A volcanic eruption

• A sudden earthquake

• A tornado

What was the main reason for the failure of the Edenville Dam?

• A design flaw in the dam structure

• Inability to drain water fast enough

• An unexpected earthquake

• A landslide

How did Dan Dice's home get affected by the flood?

• It was submerged but remained intact

• It was off the foundation and wrecked

• It was slightly damaged

• It was completely untouched

What is a major challenge with dams built in the early to mid-20th century?

• They are made of unsuitable materials

• They are too modern for current needs

• They are too small for current water levels

• They were designed for a different climate

How does climate change affect the hydrologic cycle?

• It reduces the frequency of storms

• It stabilizes global temperatures

• It increases the potential for heavy rain events

• It decreases the amount of water vapor in the atmosphere

What is one approach to managing flood risks mentioned in the video?

• Ignoring floodplain areas

• Building more dams

• Channelizing rivers

• Implementing green infrastructure

What is a recommended step for individual flood preparedness?

• Rely solely on insurance

• Store valuables in the basement

• Elevate and anchor critical utilities

• Ignore flood warnings