Urban planner, USF expert weighs in on recent Tampa Bay flooding

Recent flooding in Tampa Bay has raised alarm bells among experts, including Steven Fernandez, an Associate Instructor at the University of South Florida. With over a decade of experience analyzing flooding in Florida, Fernandez emphasizes that the sea level in the region has risen eight inches in the last 50 years, making flooding increasingly common. This year's rainfall has highlighted vulnerabilities, with even long-time residents experiencing flooding in areas previously deemed safe. Fernandez specifically mentions low-lying neighborhoods like Shore Acres and St. Pete Beach as particularly susceptible to water accumulation.

He attributes the worsening flooding to urban development, such as the removal of trees and increased paving. To combat these challenges, Fernandez stresses the importance of creating more drainage systems, including retention ponds, to help manage water flow during storms. His comments underscore the urgent need for proactive measures to protect Tampa Bay communities from the escalating impacts of climate change. The situation calls for immediate attention from local authorities to implement effective solutions.