New York City, New Orleans at greatest risk of extreme damage from floods, new analysis reveals

image via New Scientist

April 22, 2026, 6:00 PM

• •More than 4.7 million New Yorkers are at risk from floods.
• •Over 98% of New Orleans residents are at risk of flooding.
• •People below the poverty line, minority groups, and the elderly are disproportionately affected.
• •Mitigation strategies include levees, preserving natural landscapes, and permeable materials.
• •Challenges to mitigation include expensive waterfront property and convincing owners to relocate.

A new study reveals that millions of residents in New York City and New Orleans are at high risk of extreme flood damage, with over 4.7 million New Yorkers potentially affected. The study highlights that the percentage of the population at risk is higher in New Orleans, with over 98% of residents vulnerable. The research also indicates that already at-risk populations, such as those below the poverty line, are disproportionately affected by flooding. Mitigation strategies like protective structures and preserving natural landscapes are suggested, but challenges remain, particularly in relocating waterfront property owners.

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