As New York City recovers from severe flash floods, officials are grappling with the reality that extreme weather is becoming the new norm.
New York City Chief Climate Officer Rohit Aggarwala highlights that the recent deluge is part of a broader pattern linked to climate change, shifting the city’s climate classification from continental to humid subtropical in 2020.
This change reflects warmer winters and more intense rainfall, echoing the impact of past hurricanes like Henri and Ida.
Meteorologist Nelson Vaz points out that events once considered rare are now occurring more frequently. To combat this, Aggarwala is spearheading the city’s climate adaptation strategy.
His approach includes innovative solutions such as converting basketball courts into rain retention areas, creating rain gardens, and developing coastal defenses.
Rain gardens installed citywide help manage stormwater and ease sewer system pressure.The “cloudburst design” basketball courts, tested in Queens, are sunken structures that capture excess rainwater. Similarly, rain gardens are designed to absorb runoff and reduce sewer strain. The Bluebelt Program in Staten Island connects storm sewers to natural wetlands, mitigating flooding and proving effective during recent storms.
Aggarwala’s office is also focused on addressing extreme heat by advocating for air conditioning mandates and installing 30,000 heat pump units.
Despite these efforts, he admits that New York’s infrastructure is struggling to keep up with the rapid pace of climate change. Upgrading the sewer system, for instance, will take five to seven years, highlighting the urgent need for improvements.
State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli’s audit criticized the Metropolitan Transit Authority for falling behind on climate adaptation.
In response, the MTA asserts it has been investing in resilience measures for years. Experts stress the importance of preparing for extreme weather, advising New Yorkers to assess their homes for flood risks and to consider flood insurance.
Aggarwala urges residents to approach extreme weather with the same seriousness as they would other natural hazards.