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Abstract
Flooding is increasingly becoming a significant issue in the United States, with recent incidents causing substantial damage. This article examines the challenges of flood mitigation, focusing on the interplay of societal vulnerabilities, institutional responses, and technical elements. It analyzes factors leading to lengthy implementation periods for large-scale flood mitigation projects, especially in light of looming climate change threats. The study underscores the importance of a community-centric approach in disaster risk management, incorporating socioeconomic factors into mitigation strategies.The research assesses various flood mitigation methods in the U.S., both structural and nonstructural, emphasizing recent projects in the southern region. The findings highlight the necessity of proactive planning and policy development in response to climate change, advocating for collaboration among local communities, policymakers, and experts. Additionally, the study explores the impact of demographic and socioeconomic factors on the effectiveness of flood mitigation. In conclusion, the paper advocates for a holistic approach to flood mitigation. This strategy should proactively integrate social vulnerabilities, economic considerations, and environmental impacts to formulate solutions that not only mitigate flood risks but also prevent exacerbating inequality and increasing vulnerability to future disasters.