Threat of Flood in Miami-Dade County, FL

Miami-Dade County, a low-lying coastal region near the Atlantic Ocean and Biscayne Bay, faces significant flooding risks due to its extensive canal systems and high groundwater levels. This project explores how flood risks have evolved and assesses their potential impact on urban infrastructure and natural habitats. By using GIS tools and FEMA flood zone data from 1994 and 2009, I conducted a comparative flood risk analysis to better understand the growing environmental and urban challenges posed by rising sea levels.


Goal
The project sought to address four key questions in a way that could guide future planning efforts:


Which areas of Miami-Dade are most at risk of flooding?
Which transportation infrastructure might be affected by floods?
Which ecological habitats are under threat?
How have flood zones changed between 1994 and 2009?
Through spatial overlay techniques and thematic mapping, the project visualized flood-prone zones, infrastructure vulnerabilities, and environmental impacts, providing valuable insights for developing effective mitigation strategies.


Analysis
Base Map & Thematic Layers: A base map was created featuring cities, major roads, and transport stations, with flood zone data and elevation information overlaid to provide context.
Flood Zone Change: By comparing FEMA flood data from 1994 and 2009, it became clear that high-risk flood zones had expanded inland, particularly in central areas.
Transportation Impact: The analysis revealed that many major transport stations, especially along the southeastern coast, lie within flood-prone areas, highlighting the need for adaptive measures.
Habitat Risk: The study assessed which ecological zones overlap with low-elevation flood-prone areas, emphasizing the vulnerability of key biodiversity regions.


Conclusion
The comparative flood zone analysis demonstrated that, despite FEMA’s reported reduction in measured flood areas, actual high-risk zones have expanded inland since 1994, particularly in urban centers. Both transportation infrastructure and populated cities remain highly exposed to flood threats. Additionally, ecological habitats near the southeastern coast are becoming increasingly vulnerable. This project underscores the importance of enhancing coastal resilience, updating flood zoning policies, and implementing adaptive strategies for transportation infrastructure to prepare Miami-Dade County for future climate-driven risks.