Out of all natural disasters, flooding is the most common in Pennsylvania. Heavy rainfall and flash flooding can cause power outages and damage to infrastructure and property. Contaminated water poses risks to human health, and mudslides often caused by flooding can disrupt ecosystems. Further, fast-moving flood waters carry debris, causing injuries and loss of life.

Pennsylvania’s Climate Impacts Assessment from 2021 concluded that Pennsylvania is expected to see larger, more frequent, and more intense extreme rainfall events. Major flooding events are already becoming more common, and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has noted a 5% to 10% increase in annual rainfall in Pennsylvania as a result of climate change. In 2023, Pennsylvania faced extreme flooding events in July and December, which yielded damages exceeding $2 billion and $1 billion, respectively.

For these reasons and more, we will be introducing a resolution to recognize the week of March 17 through 21, 2025, as “Flood Awareness Week.” This week aims to help prepare people for major flooding events and minimize potential risks to health and property.

To further prepare in the event of a flood, the National Weather Service encourages people to be aware of impending weather events, make plans to communicate with friends and family in case of disaster, and assemble emergency kits with enough food, water, and medicine to last at least three days. When flood waters are rising, drivers should always avoid attempting to cross a flooded roadway; as the National Weather Service says, “Turn Around Don’t Drown.”

Please join us by supporting this resolution to promote awareness of the dangers of extreme flooding events and the precautions that should be taken to avoid loss of life and property.