The Toll of Flooding: A Look Back at the Most Fatal Incidents in Recent U.S. History
Flooding has averaged over 125 fatalities annually in the United States in recent decades, as reported by the National Weather Service. Notably, flash floods rank as the leading cause of storm-related deaths nationwide.
This article examines some of the most catastrophic flooding events in the past 25 years.
Rescue operations utilized helicopters, boats, and drones to search for victims and assist those trapped in trees or isolated areas cut off by washed-out roads.
Hurricane Helene, 2024
In September 2024, Hurricane Helene swept across Florida, Georgia, the Carolinas, Tennessee, and Virginia, resulting in approximately 250 fatalities, according to the National Weather Service. Many of the deaths were due to severe inland flooding rather than strong winds, making Helene the deadliest hurricane to impact the continental U.S. since Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The storm severely affected remote towns in the Appalachian region, leaving millions without electricity, cell service, or basic supplies. Notably, North Carolina recorded 108 deaths as reported by the state’s Department of Health and Human Services.
Kentucky, 2022
In late July 2022, relentless floodwaters devastated eastern Kentucky, leading to 45 fatalities as noted by AccuWeather senior meteorologist Tyler Roys. The floods obliterated homes and businesses while inflicting significant damage on schools, roads, bridges, and water systems, displacing numerous families who lost their possessions.
Tennessee, 2021
August 2021 saw catastrophic flooding in Middle Tennessee, particularly in Waverly, where 20 individuals lost their lives after creeks surged following over 17 inches (43 centimeters) of rain in under 24 hours. The deluge caused homes to be swept away, vehicles destroyed, and businesses ruined. Tragically, among the victims were twin infants who were taken from their father’s arms.
Hurricane Harvey, 2017
Hurricane Harvey struck Texas in August 2017 as a formidable Category 4 storm. It lingered inland, pouring several feet of rain onto Gulf Coast cities and Houston. The disaster resulted in at least 68 deaths, primarily due to freshwater flooding, which affected over 300,000 structures and incurred estimated damages of $125 billion.
West Virginia, June 2016
A rainstorm in West Virginia that began innocuously escalated into a calamity, trapping many overnight and leading to 23 fatalities across the state.
Superstorm Sandy, 2012
In October 2012, Superstorm Sandy, a unique combination of a hurricane and other storms, impacted New York and surrounding regions. The storm was responsible for 147 deaths, with 72 occurring in the eastern U.S., primarily due to drowning, according to the National Hurricane Center.
Mississippi River, 2011
In 2011, prolonged rainfall across several states, combined with an atypically slow snowmelt, led to extensive flooding in the Mississippi River Basin. Flash floods associated with these weather patterns resulted in 24 fatalities in Oklahoma, Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Tennessee during April and May.
Hurricane Ike, 2008
Hurricane Ike hit Southeast Texas in September 2008, generating storm surges that reached 20 feet (6 meters) in Galveston. The storm dumped over 4 feet (1.2 meters) of rain on Houston, destroying numerous vehicles and leaving hundreds of thousands of residents with flood-damaged homes. The total death toll exceeded 100, with many fatalities due to flooding.
Hurricane Katrina, 2005
Hurricane Katrina remains the deadliest flooding event in the United States over the past 25 years. The storm struck the Gulf Coast and caused catastrophic flooding when levees failed in New Orleans, necessitating widespread boat and helicopter rescues. It stands as the costliest disaster in U.S. history, claiming nearly 1,400 lives and resulting in damages estimated at $200 billion.
Tropical Storm Allison, 2001
Tropical Storm Allison caused 41 deaths, predominantly from flooding after 40 inches (101 centimeters) of rain fell in Texas and Louisiana. The storm posed a continued risk for days as its remnants lingered, leading to significant flooding in Houston during June 2001.
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