What risk-reduction measures are commonly used to lessen flood hazards?

• A. Zoning, early warning, structural codes, and emergency planning
• B. Building more houses in floodplains
• C. Removing levees
• D. No monitoring

Answer: (A)

Reducing flood risk relies on a mix of actions that lower exposure, reduce vulnerability, and improve preparedness. Zoning and land-use planning help keep development out of flood-prone areas, so fewer people and assets are placed where floods cause the most harm. Early warning systems give people and authorities time to evacuate, protect properties, and shut down risky operations before floodwaters arrive. Structural codes set requirements for construction and elevation, so new buildings are better able to resist flood forces and remain usable after a flood. Emergency planning coordinates evacuations, shelters, and response resources, which minimizes chaos and speeds recovery.

The other ideas don’t provide these protective steps: building more houses in floodplains increases potential losses, removing levees removes a protective barrier, and doing no monitoring leaves communities unprepared and slow to react.