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Resources to Understand Debris Flows

Challenge

Areas recently affected by wildfires are particularly susceptible to debris flows during rainstorms. It is important to provide debris flow information so that communities recovering from wildfire are aware of the added risks.

Solution

The New Mexico Earth Data Analysis Center is developing a debris flow application to make information more accessible.

Outcome

The debris flow application will allow users to access studies from U.S. Geological Survey, the Nature Conservancy, and other agencies or organizations that have created models for debris flow. It will allow users to view the debris flow risk post-wildfire and download the models.

It also includes resources for local communities to obtain information about debris flows and approaches to mitigate damage, such as ring barriers. In addition, information is provided about mudflow coverage available as part of FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Program.

Benefit

Having access to debris flow models improves understanding of the hazard and support predictive analysis to increase public safety post-wildfire.

Lessons Learned

Project underway

Risk MAP Phases

This project involved the following Risk MAP phases:

  • Risk Awareness and Mitigation Outreach
  • Resilience

National Mitigation Investment Strategy Connections

GOAL 1: Show how mitigation investments reduce risk

  • Recommendation 1.2 – Increase mitigation investment by building the capacity of communities to address their risks

GOAL 2: Coordinate mitigation investments to reduce risk

  • Recommendation 2.1 - Make risk information more available and easier to use

GOAL 3: Make mitigation investment standard practice

  • Recommendation 3.1 – Engage communities to adopt and enforce up-to-date building codes

Resources

Provide links or resources for others to view as they learn about your best practice.

Earth Data Analysis Center, University of New Mexico

NM Flood

Debris Flow Story Map

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