Storms, heavy rain and associated flooding are not a new phenomenon. Over generations, we designed and engineered our towns and cities with infrastructure to manage large volumes of stormwater that would otherwise inundate our streets, roads and highways. However, in many cases these storm drains, pipes and culverts have been in place for many decades and are no longer a match for the severity and frequency of storms that continue to increase.
Indeed, recent news of catastrophic rain and floodwater wreaking havoc on infrastructure and buildings around the world reminds us that intense weather patterns are fast becoming the norm.
Stormwater systems operate out of sight and thus out of mind. This invisibility leads to a lack of awareness about their critical role in preventing flooding and managing water quality. Consequently, the importance of maintaining and upgrading these hidden systems is often overlooked.
In the US in particular, federal and state funding continues to prioritise other forms of infrastructure in areas such as transportation and energy which are constantly in the public eye and thus receive more funding and support. Investment in our stormwater infrastructure continues to suffer. Indeed, a recent report from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates a need to invest more than $115 billion in stormwater management over the next 20 years.
This strategy is flawed. Our stormwater infrastructure should be considered in equal measure. Without sufficient stormwater management systems in place, flooding will quickly compromise newly constructed roads, highways, train lines and other urban infrastructure. In New York, the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) confirmed almost half of its subway stations have flooded during the last four rainstorms.
In addition to flooding, filtration systems are struggling to treat runoff adequately and water contamination is proving all too common. Combined sewer systems, which handle both stormwater and wastewater, are still found in parts of the US and are increasingly at risk of exceeding capacity, leading to frequent sewer overflows.
The costly damage to roads, bridges and buildings which remain at risk also emphasises the need for more resilient and adaptive stormwater strategies. In the US alone, the costs of repair are astronomical, with flooding in 2023 having cost at least $69 billion in infrastructure upgrades alone.
The stakes are too high to continue relying on conventional methods of stormwater management. To safeguard our communities and infrastructure into the future, we need increased investment and regulation to improve the performance of our stormwater systems and we must adopt an innovation mindset that leverages the use of cutting-edge technology beneath the surface.
However, the transition to modern and more sustainable stormwater management and the establishment of stormwater regulations requires a shift in mindset among policymakers, engineers and planners. It demands a willingness to understand and embrace new technologies and experiment with new, bold and transformative ideas.
When it comes to data and analytics, IoT devices and real-time monitoring systems can provide critical data on rainfall, water levels and system performance. Machine-learning algorithms can predict flood events and guide decision-making processes. Smart drainage systems equipped with digital sensors can detect blockages or damages and adjust flow rates in real-time, preventing overflow – a game-changer for high-growth areas strained by limited water resources.
Such functionality and enhanced efficiency reduce the long-term costs associated with reactive maintenance and provide critical intelligence for long-term urban planning. By transitioning to innovative thinking and technological prowess, such as the use of smart sensors, high-speed data connections and advanced algorithms, we can transform stormwater from an increasing threat into a well-managed, resilient resource.
It’s time to move beyond traditional approaches and invest in a future where cities can thrive. The adoption of a solutions-based approach to stormwater management, which considers the interconnectedness of urban infrastructure, environmental health and community well-being, is crucial. By utilising smart systems and embracing more sustainable practices, we can build cities that are resilient to the challenges of today and adaptable to the uncertainties of tomorrow. It’s time to transform stormwater from a threat into an asset.
- CRH Chief Operating Officer, Randy Lake.
