Deforestation increases flood risk by up to 700%
New research shows deforestation can significantly increase flood risk.
Why it matters
- Confirms link between deforestation and increased flood risk.
- Crucial for land management and climate policies.
By the numbers
- 700% increase in flood risk after deforestation.
- Flood probability changes from a 1-in-64-year event to a 1-in-8-year event.
- Decades of data from Australia analyzed.
The big picture
- Findings likely apply globally due to widespread deforestation and wildfires.
- Highlights need for careful land management to mitigate flood risks.
What they're saying
- Study led by Prof. Ashish Sharma from UNSW Sydney.
- Research confirms significant increase in flood risk due to deforestation.
Caveats
- Study based on data from Australia; global applicability assumed but not confirmed.
What’s next
- Policymakers should consider flood risk in land use and deforestation planning.