On the eve of Superstorm Sandy’s 13th anniversary, a report from New York’s comptroller lays out Long Island’s ongoing struggle with severe weather. There’s a real risk of more disasters unless we seriously tackle climate change.
According to Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli, Suffolk County has had the most severe weather incidents in New York over the last 30 years. Long Island has pulled in a staggering $3.4 billion in flood insurance claims, showing just how vulnerable the area is.
DiNapoli’s report highlights that extreme weather, which includes storms, heavy rain, and snow, is becoming more frequent. He stressed the need for better infrastructure and collaboration with federal partners to make recovery more affordable for residents.
Consider these facts: from 1978 to 2024, Suffolk declared 36 emergencies, while Nassau had 31. Between 1996 and 2024, Suffolk was hit by 1,751 severe storms. This continuous threat not only brings physical damage but also heavy financial costs. New York sees around $1.4 billion in losses each year due to natural disasters, and the state has received almost $1 billion in federal assistance annually.
Interestingly, despite the high stakes, only 3% of properties statewide have flood insurance. In Nassau, the figure is 25%, while Suffolk sits at 18%. The aftermath of Sandy alone accounted for 70% of all flood insurance claims since 1978.
Sandy had a devastating impact when it hit on October 29, 2012. It caused approximately $32.8 billion in damage across Long Island and New York City. Sadly, claims only covered about $5.8 billion, leaving a massive gap.
Recent government decisions complicate matters further. Federal funding for storm protection projects has been paused, and there are proposals to tighten eligibility for FEMA assistance. This could severely impact areas already facing challenges.
As the weather grows more unpredictable, local communities need to prepare. Experts warn that without robust measures, the path forward could lead to more destruction. The conversation around climate adaptation isn’t just necessary; it’s urgent.
By understanding these trends and stats, residents can better prepare for the challenges ahead and encourage action on both a local and federal level to safeguard their homes and communities.
For further insights, you can explore the New York State Adaptation and Resilience Plan and keep an eye on how local agencies are collaborating to tackle climate change.
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Environment and nature, Nassau, Suffolk, New York State, State/Region, Weather, TRUMP-ENV
